Crystallising the Purpose and setting clear Goals is so exciting, inspiring and elevating. Initial period of setting up the environment, tools and routines for taking actions towards achieving the Goals is energizing.
And then routines become….. usual routines and somewhere down the track, momentum fades. And in a few months, we realise that we are off track, and it’s hard to get started again.
This is the most common story that many of us can relate to.
We focus on creating clear and SMART Goals. But having a SMART Goal only gives us direction. What we also need is the continuous drive and determination.
The momentum and continuous drive are generated by a strong “WHY” of the Goal.
Here are 3 tips for using the “WHY” to create the energy and momentum that will propel you to accomplish your Goals.
- Ask yourself these questions at the time of defining the Goal, and WRITE the answers next to your written Goal
- Why is achievement of this Goal important for me?
- What is my big motivation for achieving this Goal?
- What larger purpose is this Goal as part of?
- Set aside at least 30 minutes to review your progress at least once every month. While you review your progress, re-check and remind yourself of your “WHY”. Ask yourself these questions and WRITE down your responses:
- What was the larger purpose linked to this Goal?
- Is the initial big motivation still valid? Have I discovered something even more inspiring related to the reason for achieving my goal?
- Identify and assign yourself an accountability partner. This can be you partner/friend/coach/ mentor/colleague that you trust. Make sure you clearly share your Goal and your “WHY” with your accountability partner. Give them the license to keep a check on your progress. Set up at least 10 mins to share with them your written reflections from your monthly progress check. Celebrate your progress and achievement of each milestone with your accountability partner.
These are simple steps that will keep you on track and motivated towards your Goals. The magic happens in this recommendation when you actually WRITE down your Goals and responses.
Much research and many studies have proven the value of written Goals. In one such study Mark Murphy found that fewer than 20% people said “My goal is so vividly described in written form (including pictures, photos, drawings, etc.) that I could literally show it to other people and they would know exactly what I’m trying to achieve.” And the people who vividly describe their Goals in written form are 1.2 to 1.4 times more likely to accomplish their Goals.
Get in touch if you need support with setting clear Goals and crystallising your “WHY”
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