Rachael's all about having a "can-do" attitude toward life. But sometimes we need a little guidance when it comes to accomplishing our life goals. Life coach Cheryl Richardson shares her tips for turning your "To Do" list into an "I've Done" list!

1. Capture Your Goals on Paper
   

First, consider all areas of your life. These categories may include:

• Career
• Financial
• Personal Health (physical, emotional, spiritual goals)
• Relationship
• Intellectual
• Fun/Adventure

Under each category, make a list of everything you'd like to accomplish. Let your mind run wild and write down anything that comes to mind regardless of how far-fetched or unrealistic the goal might seem.

When you think about the things you want in your life and you put them in writing, you give them power. Then the things you thought that used to be a dream that you never thought you'd accomplish in a million years suddenly start to happen. It's one thing to think about a goal, it's another to say it -- when you say it you give it power. Then to put it in writing you give it way more power, and then when you take action and actually do something, then miracles start happening.

1. Refine Your Goal List
   
   Next, choose one specific goal from each category and as you do, think about the goals that, when accomplished, might actually support the achievement of other goals. For example, if you want to lose 20 pounds (physical goal), you could also accomplish a relationship goal of making great new friends by joining a weight loss group! Once you have your six goals in place, put them in writing on several index cards so you can put them in places where you'll see them every day.
   

2. Make a Goal Map
   
   Once you've completed your goal list, increase your chances of success by making a "Goal Map" -- a visual representation of your current goals. Cut out pictures, words and phrases from magazines and make a collage. Then, take a digital photo and keep one at work, put one on your computer's screensaver, and send a copy to a support buddy who will hold you accountable. Hang your original Goal Map at home in a prominent place.

3. Create a Realistic Action Plan
   

Create a five-step, specific action plan for each goal. What five things must you do first to get moving on accomplishing your goal? Break big tasks into small steps. Then, choose a support partner who will cheer you on as you take action!

Goals for Every Decade!

To determine your top goals for this decade, ask yourself: What goals would I regret not having done by the end of this decade? What needs to be done at this time in my life? Here are some examples:

• Career Goals

20s - Complete your college degree
30s - Find a job you love that allows you to build a strong professional network and that has great earning potential
50s - Allow yourself to do work that gives you a sense of contribution and fulfillment
60s - Share your gifts and talents by becoming a mentor for a younger colleague

• Financial Goals

20s - Buy your first car or take a class in building smart financial habits early in life
30s - Purchase a home
40s - Hire a financial planner
50s - Get your estate plan in place

• Personal Health Goals

20s - Study dance before it's too late (physical)
30s - Start a family (physical/emotional)
40s - Get a mammogram (physical), go on a meditation retreat (spiritual)
50s - Colonoscopy (physical)

• Relationship Goals

20s - Find a mate
30s - Get married
40s - Join a volunteer community project to become part of your community
50s - Rediscover your passion to prepare for an empty nest

• Intellectual Goals

40s - Go back to school to get your degree
50s - Write that book you've been planning to write

• Fun/Adventure Goals

20s - Backpack through Europe
30s - Rent a summer home with friends
40s - Take kids to Disney
50s - Take an acting class
60s - Plan a sailing trip for retirement