To prepare an effective goal plan it is essential to understand what a goal actually is and how it differs from a purpose or a vision. A goal has a specific endpoint - you know when you've achieved it. There is tangible evidence.

A vision or a purpose is an ongoing statement of intent which the goals, as they are achieved, help to accomplish. "By June 2012 I am exporting my product to three countries," is a goal, whereas "My products enhance the quality of life wherever they are sold," could be a purpose or vision for your company.

So the first question to ask yourself about your goal is:

Is my Goal Specific and Measurable?

Here are some other questions to help clarify the viability of your goal.

Is your Goal Realistic and Achievable?

Yes, there is a difference. To have a goal to do $1 million worth of sales in your first year of business may be achievable, but given all the facts you have, is it realistic? The problem with setting unrealistic goals is that while they may be big and exciting, you could be setting yourself up for discouragement and failure.

In my experience, it is better practice to set goals that can be realistically achieved and celebrated. By all means hang on to the big picture or dream but you may need to come down a step to what is realistic in the foreseeable future and set your initial goals there.

Is your Goal Challenging?

A goal worth going for needs to be something that stretches your ability and helps you grow as you go after it - it is not something you can do tomorrow with a couple of phone calls. For instance, a goal of going on an overseas holiday next year is not challenging if all you have to do is pick up the phone and make the bookings.

However, if achieving that holiday means creating a way to afford it, qualifying it as a business expense and covering your work while you are away - it could be a very challenging and worthwhile goal indeed.

Is your Goal Inspirational?

This is very important if you are to stay on track when the going gets tough. When you picture yourself having achieved your big goal, does it excite you? Does it make your heart sing?

Is this Goal Mine?

Yes, is this goal yours? Something YOU really want? It's easy to get caught up in other people's dreams and aspirations and adopt their goals as your own. This can be especially true in relationships whether with your parents, partners or business associates.

If you are doing a business goal plan with a partner make sure it is something you both want and think is realistic. When you are satisfied that your goal meets all these criteria, it's time to refine the wording.

Express your goal in terms of a ''have'', almost like an affirmation eg. "I am exporting my products to three countries by June 2012." Keep the wording as brief and specific as possible so it is easily remembered.

There is no need to put all the trimmings of the why's and the how's in the basic wording of the goal, however, clarifying why you want the goal and whether it is in alignment with your personal values is the next important step in ensuring that the goal you have chosen is the right one for you and for now.

Wendy Buckingham is a writer, speaker, coach and author of Ready Set Goal.

Her information website on coaching is dedicated to providing credible, independent resources on becoming a coach or adding life or business coaching to a skills portfolio.

To get to know Wendy better and to see what she offers, visit All About Becoming A Life Coach and her Facebook Page Becoming a Professional Coach for some great coaching and goal setting tips.