From Goals to Plans - Learning the Hard Way

By: Zoe Routh
Submitted: 2007-01-17 16:41:51
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I spent some of my time on holiday reflecting on the year and the goals I had set for myself. I was pleased with my achievements. I released Compass Bearings, launched my website, and quadrupled my client base.

And then I noticed one of the most jaw-dropping, glaring, "but I know this stuff" kind of observations. It was this: the difference between the goals I did achieve and those that fell by the wayside was simply this: a plan. Yes I know - this is obvious - the difference between a 'goal' and a 'wish' is a plan.

This principle was so evident in what transpired for me last year: my business goals were written down clearly, I broke them up into small manageable chunks, and I went about ticking off the items one at a time. It felt good to achieve little things - it kept the momentum going and I felt fabulous about moving forward with my dream business. The result - I kicked 'butt' at kicking this goal!

My 'goal' of learning scuba diving simply remained an articulated 'wish' - all thought no action. Though I 'only' missed out on learning a new sport, what I really missed out on, for me, was this: nurturing a passion and a quality experience that I would have found enriching. I missed out on a real source of joy. All because I did not draft and follow through on a simple plan (Step 1. Find out where and who delivers scuba lessons Step 2. Book time off. Step 3. Go!)

How did you on your goals last year? Did you make a plan and follow through? Or were there things you missed out on - all for lack of a plan? Don't let this year be a replay of past mistakes - let this be your year!

Here are my tips for transforming a 'wish' into a 'reality' (and yes I know - they are very, very simple - so no excuses not to do it!)

1. Pull out your list of goals for this coming year.

2. Set a date for achieving them next to each one.

3. Write a detailed list of what you need to do to make this goal a reality. Break the actions up into the smallest possible actions.

4. Schedule these actions in your diary and on your calendar.

5. Do one task. Celebrate. Do another. Celebrate. Do another. Celebrate. Enjoy taking control of your life and creating a reality you love.

Remeber - Life is for Living!

Cancer survivor Zoe Routh is the Head Coach at Inner Compass, a personal development organisation that helps busy professionals work less and achieve more. Inner Compass offers practical strategies and solutions to improve personal effectiveness and live an inspired life. http://www.innercompass.com.au

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