“You can’t depend on your eyes when your imagination is out of focus.”
– Mark Twain
This is the 6th blog about setting real targets.
Previously, I outlined why goals work and what’s addressed by well-rounded goals. We also started building some basic ideas on how to visualize that success. Well done! You’ve achieved the most critical steps that the majority of people miss, and you’ve taken the time dig in and get specific.
In earlier posts, I discussed the significance of focusing on your True North – what’s really important in your heart. I genuinely believe in this exercise. I also mentioned the importance of finances and how, in most cases, can be a tool that helps us achieve our primary goals. In some exceptions, the balance sheet can be the primary goal.
Companies use dashboards, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), or flash reports…and they do this because they work! For personal goal setting, we recommend looking at The Balance Wheel and choosing several points that could be addressed. Here are a few examples:
- Relationships: This could be as simple as the number of date nights a month, family dinners, or attendance at kid events
- Professional: This may look like an exploration of internal growth opportunities, weeks worked under 50 hours, or the numbers of friends at work
- Resources: This could be reduced debt, income earned, or time off enjoyed
- Physical: This may be an ideal target body weight obtained or days a week of meditation
Regardless of your choice, you’ll be able to take a look at these and visualize your life, which is a way of making a crystal clear goal to achieve your version of success.
I suggest picking a handful of numbers. If you’re a very detailed person, go with few extra; if you’re more of a creative type, keep it simple and stick with two to three.
To give you more of an idea, here’s what Reka and I chose:
- Her annual income, my annual income, and our investments/passive income
- Three months off for adventure and “recharging” our batteries
- Specific weight goals (for me, these are numbers that I haven’t seen since high school!)
Your goals may differ from ours, but they’re still highly important. You’re now bringing the dreams in your head and heart to life. Don’t worry if you feel a bit weird in the pit of your stomach – that just means you’re pushing yourself. Good work!
Next week, we’ll outline and create your actual goals – yours, your partner’s, and/or your team’s.
Do you or someone you know need help setting powerful goals? We’re here to help! Reach out anytime, no expectation or obligation.
