Are you using a goal setting worksheet? There are many different versions of these types of worksheets, but the sheer number of ideas can be challenging. Not all worksheets are right for everyone.

It helps if you know how you plan to use them, because once you know that, you’ll also know which ones are best for you, and even how to make your own. So read on to find out the key ways to use them.

They’re a great resource for every part of the goal-setting process, from discovering your core values ​​to mapping out your goals to creating individual action steps. So here are the five key ways to use such a worksheet as you go through the goal setting process:

1) Determine your core values

Write down your top values, and then narrow them down by crossing off the ones that are somewhat negotiable, until you’re down to the top five values ​​you can’t live without. Then put them in order from 1 to 5.

2) Match your values ​​with your goals

Figure out what you want, and then check to see if your intent goals align with your core values. If they aren’t, try another lens or find ways to make the lens better align with your core values. Make sure to be honest here. Do not fool yourself.

3) Make your goals seductive

Write down the things you will enjoy when you have achieved your goals. Think about them in great detail, in sensory terms, one at a time. Make each one of them come to life. Taste it, smell it and imagine what will fall to have what you are looking for. You can even add a checklist to create reminder note cards that you can take with you wherever you go.

4) Narrow your goals down to size

Big and bold goals can be motivating, but they can also be very intimidating. Don’t let that stop you. Use your goal setting worksheets to reduce your big goals down to size.

What does that mean? It means that you create specific action steps for each of them. Do you remember that famous Chinese quote about the 1000 mile path that starts with the first step? That is what you should aspire to. Write down a first step for each of your goals. Then another. Then another. Write as many as you can think of, but don’t stress if you can’t think of more than one or two. The third step will become obvious once you have completed steps one and two.

5) Schedule your first steps

On the last goal setting worksheet, you need to schedule your action steps. In fact, turn it into a checklist where you can cross off the steps you’ve taken. And while it’s not a worksheet, don’t ignore your calendar. Whether you use a PDA or an old-fashioned Week-at-a-Glance calendar, time your steps and you’ll be on your way.