However, the salesperson can set the goal to do everything possible to win ten deals next year. By defining an objective in this manner, all responsibility for bringing the project to completion lies with the salesperson, and he or she wastes no time worrying about forces beyond his or her control.

Another element that frequently requires a little thought is the last one, which is that the goal be optional. If your boss comes in to tell you to complete a project by next week, that's not your goal. Your goal is to get a promotion.

You alone choose your pursuits. You alone are responsible for reaching the goals you set.