"Un-Goal" setting for your 2024
Houria Bellatif
Organizational Consultant | Leadership Coach | Workshop Facilitator | Practical Insights Speaker
As the calendar flips to a new year, millions will pen resolutions fervently. From getting that promotion to launching a side hustle, deepening emotional connections, and becoming a pillar in their community, the goals will be as diverse as their ambitions. But what if I told you these plans might be as outdated as last year's memes before January ends? I am introducing you to a thought process that might diverge from the usual goal-setting narratives.
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Forget SMART goals. Let's talk about W.I.S.E. intentions.
In a world where the only constant is change—where your next ample career opportunity might come from a casual conversation and where your personal relationships can influence your professional network—I dare you to enter 2024 with intentions, not just metrics. Before you raise an eyebrow, let me clarify: I'm not advocating for aimlessness in your career or complacency in your personal life. Instead, I invite you to consider a more nuanced, flexible approach to growth encompassing all facets of your existence. Think of it as your personal and professional GPS, recalibrating it in real-time as you journey through the unpredictable landscape of life.
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The Trouble with SMART goals
We've all heard of SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. They're the darling of corporate seminars and self-help books. But let's get real for a moment. How often have you set a SMART goal, only to find that it became irrelevant and counterproductive even as circumstances changed? Rigid plans can narrow focus, encourage short-term thinking, and inhibit progress.
In fact, the rigidity of SMART goals can sometimes be their downfall. They don't account for the fluidity of life, and we all know "Life does happen":
What if you achieve a goal and find it unfulfilling?
?These are questions that SMART goals often need to address. And let's remember that life is rarely lived in a vacuum. Our goals often intersect with those of others, adding layers of complexity that a SMART framework can't fully capture.
Because life isn't a checklist; it's a rich, unfolding narrative.
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Enter W.I.S.E Intentions Instead.
So, what's the alternative? I propose WISE intentions: Whole, Inspirational, Sustainable, and Evolving. Unlike goals, which are often rigid and outcome-focused, intentions are flexible and process-oriented. They allow room for adaptation and growth, which is crucial in our fast-paced, ever-changing world.
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Power of Flexibility
Let's say you're a manager aiming to improve team productivity. A SMART goal might be to "increase team output by 20% in Q1." But what happens if a global pandemic hits or key team members leave? That's where a WISE intention comes in handy. Instead of a rigid metric, you could "foster a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability within the team." This intention is flexible enough to accommodate unforeseen challenges and opportunities. It also encourages a mindset of growth and adaptability, which is invaluable in today's volatile business landscape.
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Ready to give it a try? Here's a simple exercise to set your WISE intentions for the coming year:
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As you stand at the start of 2024, I challenge you to set W.I.S.E intentions that will evolve with you. Because life isn't a checklist; it's a rich, unfolding narrative. And in this narrative, you're not just the main character but also the author. So why limit yourself to a rigid plotline when you can write a story that adapts and grows?
?I wish you and yours an incredible year ahead!
RFM BeNeLux & France, IFM Work Dynamics @Amazon
1 年Excellent read thanks Houria ??
Customer Success Manager | AI Implementation Strategist | Transforming businesses through strategic performance optimization.
1 年Let's make 2024 the year of growth and adaptability! ??
Experienced Performance Improvement Coach and Advisor
1 年Thank you for this alternative perspective on setting intentions versus rigid goals. I will definitely be incorporating WISE intentions as I am reflecting on 2023 and planning for 2024. All the best in 2024 to you Houria Bellatif!