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Here are the top 3 goal-setting mistakes I’ve witnessed lately among leaders and executives – as well as strategies for fixing (or avoiding) them:
1. The goal is too vague. Fuzzy goals lead to fuzzy results. If you want to reach new heights, get as clear and specific a picture as possible so you know exactly what you’re moving toward.
Along with specifics like a time frame and measurable success points, also consider how you will feel upon reaching your goal. Will you have more energy? Feel more confident? Then, start cultivating those feelings now. Don’t wait until you reach the goal before you experience the joy.
(If this seems too touchy-feely for you, give it a try anyway. You might be surprised at your results.)
2. The goal is boring. I don’t know about you, but when I hear the same most-popular New Year’s resolutions among Americans (lose weight, earn more money, etc.), my energy instantly drains. How boring! If your goal doesn’t energize you and motivate you into action, you need to set a new goal – or at least play with the wording.
The telltale signs of boring goals: the word “should” is involved, someone else has set the goal for you, or the wording is plain and devoid of any meaning or enthusaism.
Ideally, your goal will delight you. Compare “I’ll lose 20 pounds” to “I’m excited to reach my ideal weight of X and feel healthy, vibrant, and abundantly energetic!” Your words matter.
3. The goal is out of your circle of influence. I once coached an incredibly successful executive who was experiencing great discontent among her team. She wanted to set a goal like, “My team all gets along.”
While reaching a goal – especially a Bold Goal – is a phenomenal experience, there’s something even more important at play here: the person you become in the process. Your transformation will
What action will you take towards your vision today? Share below, on ourFacebook page, or via Twitter!
Dr. Christi Hegstad helps you successfully do what you love! As President of MAP Professional Development Inc., she coaches leaders to get unstuck and reach Bold Goals with clarity, confidence, and meaningful action.
Learn more at www.meaning-and-purpose.com and follow Dr. Christi on Facebook and Twitter.
