Turning Your Goal Setting Process Upside Down

The importance of the goal-setting process is no mystery. Many would say that it is hard to reach your ultimate career goals if you don't have a goal in mind and a strategy in which to reach it.

When we think of setting a goal, we usually start by writing down a list of tactics, to-dos, and items that we need to do, learn or buy to reach our goal. As you move down the list, checking off completed items, we often believe our goal will become a reality.

However, I recently read an article a few months ago that turns that whole goal setting process on its head.

Brianna Wiest has a different approach to the goal-setting process in her article Learn to bridge where you are to where you want to be.

Brianna suggests that we start with the end in mind - write down your goal first. This way, as you tick off the steps to achieving your goal, you are moving UP THE LIST. Brianna explains it like this:

You’ll notice in the mental shift that what you have is at the bottom, and what you want is at the top. This is an important alignment because you want the experience of feeling as though you are rising to a greater outcome.

In my new book, I am working on strategies that will create time and alignment from the side of your desk as much of these activities must be in parallel to your existing agenda.

Recognizing What You Have

As you think through what you have in the goal-setting process, make sure you quiet your self deprecating internal monologue. I have learned to quiet my inner critic and just plan freely with our internal judgment as this often skews my reality and goal setting.

With your existing experiences, successes, and skills you may not be as far away from your goal as you think.

If you struggle to quiet that negative voice, check out my video on how to go from self-deprecating to "Yes I Can!"

Work Toward Your Goal Every day

Once you have the beginning and end determined, what do you need to do to achieve your goal? Whatever those steps are, and however long the process might take, remember to work on your goal weekly. Even prompt yourself in your calendar - What am I doing today to achieve my goals this week.

Whether the goals are professional, financial or personal, there are always things you can do to help move in the right direction. Make sure you take a step forward this week even if it is small. Any step in your desired direction matters!

Additional Reads

• How to Deal with the Negative Attitudes that Threaten Your Career
• Career Advancement: Branding For Your Future
• Are You Still Seeking Learning Opportunities in Your Career?