The Focus of Your Goals

M3 ??Monday Morning Message – No. 742, October 7, 2024

As we head into the fourth quarter of 2024, I was considering where I stand against the goals for the year I set in January. At this time of year, I usually take time to evaluate my goals, my status for achieving them, what should change or has changed, and what I have left to do with the remaining days left in the year. I do not want to get surprised later in the year realizing I have not accomplished what I set out to do at the beginning of the year. Looking at the goal statements and achievements to date almost felt mechanical. It felt like simply checking the box relative to what I have done. That left a bit of an empty feeling, even though I can check boxes as complete or almost complete. I think that feeling is based in the fact that the stated performance goals are very tactical and even if they contain a strategic element, they are built upon tactical steps to reach them.

A more fulfilling thought developed as I asked the questions, “How have I grown this year?” and “What have I done to help those around me grow?” ?I realized the focus of my stated goals, while important and valuable if accomplished, would have greater value if I were able to define how accomplishing those goals enriched my life and the lives of others. I am now adjusting and adding to my goals for the rest of the year with more focus on how I want to continue to grow and what I am going to do to help make the lives of others better and help them grow.

It is important to take inventory of your stated goals with time left in the year to accomplish them. As you do, consider how achieving those goals will produce personal and professional growth at the end of the year as compared to where you were at the beginning of the year. Consider also how those goals enrich the lives of others. If you find a gap, there is still time to adjust and accomplish more important achievements with longer-lasting impact this year. As business consultant and motivational speaker Zig Ziglar says,

“"What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals." – Zig Ziglar

I hope you have a wonderful week!

Brad

Note – the use of quotes does not imply that I agree or disagree with the views, philosophies, or beliefs of those quoted.