A goal without a plan is just a wish

The idea of working for myself is not one I arrived at easily. I don’t feel like a “natural” entrepreneur. I want the benefits of the lifestyle and the value-alignment, but getting there is a series of tasks on a list, rather than the flow that I imagine “real” entrepreneurs to have. 

I’ve been managing that by applying the habits and techniques I’ve built over my life and career. I have a new appreciation for them, as I’m using them to help myself and my clients, and seeing the results directly. 

This year, more than ever, I want to meet my goals. So, in the spirit of continuing our work of setting solid goals to drive success, I want to share some thoughts on how to make them more real: planning and tracking. Not very glamorous, but it’s the way to make things happen. 

Planning comes first, and it gives you a solid foundation for tracking. Planning is hard – you have to sit down and really think about the steps you have to take and the time you need. But it’s worth the time to have created a path to keep your feet on over the coming months. Don’t just wish to succeed – plan to succeed.

Here are some things to think about when you sit down to plan:

• What are the most important areas to move the needle on the goal? Starting with these ensures your focus aligns with your plan.
• What time frame are you planning? My preference is to plan quarterly.
• How much time do you have to spend on this goal? Realistic planning is hard, and requires you to be honest with yourself about how much you can take on.
• Are there any impediments you should consider when planning? Maybe you are taking a two week vacation, or you need to buy something you don’t yet have the funds there. Thinking about these barriers may trigger solutions, but if not, at least you can be realistic about how they impact your plan to achieve your goal.

A solid plan is your best friend when it comes to both productivity and achieving your goals. If you are stuck turning your business goals into plans – I can help. A short conversation could get you pointed in the right direction.