5 Steps To Creating Authentic Goals
by Elaine Morris
Setting goals is one of the most basic things we do in business and in life. Many of you have just come through your annual budgeting process and set organizational priorities. As we wrap up the holiday season, many commit to New Year’s resolutions for personal habits, fitness, relationships and family life. The fitness center industry counts on it!
As you engage in your personal and business goal setting this year, think about where you have been and where you would like to go next. Listen to that still small voice that tells you when you are being real and when you are kidding yourself. Here are five steps to help you set goals that are inspiring, grounded and authentic. A format is included to guide you.
- Reflect
We are busy Americans used to constant noise, activity, stimulation, media and technology, so sitting still is a challenge. However, it is the most effective way to gain a sense of perspective and build your self awareness. Try carving out an hour of quiet, uninterruptible time alone to look back on where you have been the last 12 months. Scan through your successes, obstacles, risks, what you did not accomplish and main lessons you learned in the process.
- Confront Your Failures
It takes courage to look at what is incomplete or unresolved. It may be a damaged relationship, a failed plan, a botched project, or a persistent bad habit. Address what it will take to make needed changes. There is no point in setting new goals on top of past failures. It will prevent you from going forward.
- Ask Three Broad Questions
Scan the bigger picture before moving into more specific areas of goal setting. This will give you the context you need to set priorities and ground your plans.
- Set Balanced Goals
Start with self care, areas of personal effectiveness and then move to your business goals and organizational objectives. By doing this you are integrating your life and acknowledging the very real interrelatedness of your well-being and performance.
- Plan Follow Through, Support and Accountability
Most plans fail not because of poor goal setting, but a lack of follow through. Take a few extra minutes and think through how you will approach your plan and who will support you. Set regular times to review your goals and get input.
About the Author: Elaine Siciliano Morris is principal consultant and founder of Sea Change Inc, an organizational effectiveness firm based in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. A frequent keynote speaker and workshop presenter on leadership, corporate culture and personal growth, Elaine works with leaders and their teams to create productive and rewarding work environments. More information about her is available on her website: www.seachangecoach.com, or contact Elaine by phone at 972-407-0648.
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