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Having a Top 10 list is always a helpful visual to aiding you in breaking down something so complex into something easy to read and follow. We have developed a Top 10 list of a true leader to aid you in your process of defining the leader within you.

1. Define Yourself and Assess Your Qualities

Having self-worth and self-definition is primary for setting goals. It aids indetermining your motives, it lets you see if your desires are based on what you want to achieve, or what others want you to achieve. Make a list of your skills and talents. In addition, detail some of your most favorable characteristics,i.e., lovable, energetic, committed, organized, etc. Write down your strengths and weaknesses.

2. Determine Your Purpose & Personal Values

People are molded by their belief system, convictions and principles acquired from their life experiences. Yet how many people can articulate what their purpose or mission in life really is? Once you have established what your purpose in life is, setting goals becomes easy. This could very well be a life long process but one that is worth the journey. Goal setting without knowing your purpose in life is like shooting at a target in the dark. Knowing your purpose in life gives you direction. You should also determine what your values (principles) are. Values speaks to honesty, integrity, sincerity, trust, worthiness, fairness and how you measure up to them. Knowing your purpose in life and having values, makes life well worth living and goals worth achieving!

3. Develop A Vision

Now that you have a goal in mind, begin to visualize the outcome of that goal. There is an old saying that says, "a picture is worth a thousand words." There are two main items necessary for vision development;imagination and creativity. In vision development you actually step into there realm of possibilities where there are no limitations! Begin to visualize the whole picture with a job well done, see yourself with your goal already accomplished. Start visualizing your goal live and in living color!

4. Set Measurable Objectives and Realistic Goals

Your goal should be realistic. It should be a goal that is measurable and achievable. It should be challenging but realistic. Dream big, but make sure you take the steps necessary for making your dreams come true!

5. Develop A Personal Strategic Action Plan

You will need a plan of action for achieving your goal. The next step is focusing on the process. How will you achieve your goal? Doing a needs assessment, listing the resources that you will need, i.e., : human,material and financial; skills, and education; establishing a time line, setting up check-points, knowing when to re-group, re-evaluate and restructure are the essential step necessary achieving success. Record the process and progress. It all becomes easy when you have a plan!

6. Maintain Motivation

You must have a positive attitude, you must have"Audacity." You got to have the "guts" to accomplish what you set out to do! Learn to celebrate your successes. Give yourself healthy praise and reward yourself.

7. Become Disciplined

Everyone needs to have discipline in their lives. Being focused, organized, in control and being able to manage your life aids in obtaining your goals. Develop an effective time-management system that you will adhere to. Having a mentor/coach for positive and constructive feedback is also very helpful. It should be someone that can be positive, open and objective. Disciplined people work smart not hard!

8. Be Flexible

There are times when the best of plans will need to be modified or changed. Do not be afraid to modify your plans if necessary.

9. Make Time For Leisure

We are so serious at times and we forget to add fun and play into our plans and into our lives. Having family time, doing community activities,taking a vacation or just plain relaxing will do you much justice. Relax! Let go! Have fun, you deserve it!

10. Take Action

Just do it! STARTING RIGHT NOW!