Our number one priority as leaders is setting direction, goals, and objectives. Why do we only sometimes achieve them? Three reasons:
- We set them incorrectly. They were not clear, practical, and aligned with our purpose and values. We can learn from experience to set SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) direction, goals, and objectives that are more likely to succeed.
- Things changed. After we set the direction, goal, or objective, we learned something new. Had we known then, we would have selected a different direction, etc. Now we know, so we can reset.
- We had the wrong mindset. If we set direction, goals, or objectives as a reaction to something negative–threat, discomfort, fear, the prospect of failure or loss–we may be able to achieve them but only with sustained pushing and willpower. For the record, there’s no such thing as sustained pushing and willpower. Pushing and willpower create resistance and burnout–for ourselves and our teams. When setting direction, goals, or objectives, it’s fine to start with something negative–that’s often the reality we need to deal with. Then, before setting direction etc. we flip to a positive, good-feeling, growth-oriented mindset. Now our direction, goals, and objectives will tap a deep, sustaining well of energy, focus, and creativity.
If you would like your direction, goals, and objectives to be more smart, current, and positive, what would be your very next step?
In your corner,
Michael