When you think “servant leader,” who comes to mind?
How about “goal-driven leader”?
Which would you rather be – service-hearted or goal-driven?
And the bigger question: Can you be both?
I completely, whole-heartedly believe so. You can set goals – even revenue goals – with a service-based heart. And when you can fully live and work in both, as most of my coaching clients do or strive to do, that’s the sweetest spot.
I will declare this until the end: You can make a difference and make a living. In this situation, you do not have to choose.
That being said, there is a difference between inspired action and frenetic activity. My clients aim for bold goals but with meaning and purpose – not just busy-ness. Here are 5 key habits I’ve discovered among meaningful achievers that you can assess and incorporate in your work and life:
1. They decide, proactively, what matters most.
You can’t do everything all at once. (Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way!) Meaningful achievers choose what matters most, then invest time, energy, and resources selectively.
2. They focus on inspired action rather than “busy-ness.”
If you ask someone, “How are you?” and they respond, “Busy!”, are you impressed? Me neither. I am a rapt audience, however, when someone shares the energizing, purposeful actions he’s taking to grow, change, or serve.
3. They create goals in alignment with their values.
Depending on your values, a revenue goal in and of itself might not be motivating. But how about a revenue goal with the desire to take your family on vacation, contribute significantly to a nonprofit, and support three community programs this year? Meaningful achievers know their core values and live and work in accordance with them.
4. They designate time to plan, reflect, and think.
When talking about preparing for battle, Dwight D. Eisenhower once said, “I have always found that plans are useless, but planning is indispensable.” Even if you don’t follow your plans to the letter, the act of creating them will help you achieve with meaning and purpose.
5. They live and work within the ripple.
When you pursue your passion, serve with joy, and strive for meaningful goals, you set off a positive ripple effect that, far-fetched as it may sound, can change the world. Meaningful achievers get this. They also recognize that being part of the ripple means asking for help, hiring support, and reaching out. No need to go it alone!
Which of these habits do you practice? What would you add? Share your thoughts below or on Facebook!
What if your boldest dream is actually within reach…and you don’t even realize it?
Dr. Christi Hegstad, Dream Igniter & Growth Accelerator. Christi is a Certified Coach who has helped thousands clarify and reach Big Dreams and Bold Goals with meaning and purpose. She is president of MAP Professional Development Inc., NAWBO Iowa’s Woman Business Owner of the Year, president of ICF Iowa, and mom to three amazing kids.