There are countless quotes about the importance of goal-setting:
“Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.” – Tony Robbins
“The thing about goals is that living without them is a lot more fun, in the short run. It seems to me, though, that the people who get things done, who lead, who grow and who make an impact… those people have goals.” – Seth Godin
“A goal is a dream with a deadline.” – Napoleon Hill
Yet, meaningful goals do not appear out of a vacuum. They emanate from the creative fire in the core of our being.
The wood and ignition for this fire come from thoughtful, deep reflection. They are sourced through powerful questions such as these:
- Who are you as a person?
- What are your values? What do you care about? Why do you care?
- What is your vision and purpose? Is this your vision? Why is it important to you? Are you willing to own it?
- Is there something else that you really want?
- What is the impact that you want to have? Why does this matter to you?
- What will success look like to you?
Only from the fierce energy of this fire (our bigger picture, our backstory) can we generate powerful goals that take us in the direction of our aspirations. Even if they meet the criteria of the S.M.A.R.T. i.e., specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound, acronym for goals, they only succeed when are they fueled by an inner crucible of commitment, clarity and vision. Goals set from wisps of smoke will simply dissipate into thin air.
Deeply questioning yourself is the necessary first step on the path to setting your goals. Only by doing this will you know if you are stoking the right fire!
‘If you don’t design your own life plan, chances are you’ll fall into someone else’s plan. And guess what they have planned for you? Not much.” – Jim Rohn
‘Each of you, as an individual, must pick your own goals. Listen to others, but do not become a blind follower.” – Thurgood Marshall
“If you want to be happy, set a goal that commands your thoughts, liberates your energy and inspires your hopes.” – Andrew Carnegie
