Remember When We Used To Set Goals?
Making the decision to write content about goal setting in the month of January may seem a bit predictable. Almost every mainstream media source typically uses the new year to highlight the annual tradition of making resolutions. However, the last two years taught us not to get too connected to our plans since there is a good chance they will get canceled- again. For many of us, setting annual goals had to take a back seat to establishing daily routines to protect our mental and physical health. With hope, 2022 is the year we bring back goals. We will reaffirm our faith in the myriad of systems that not just uphold our society but also give our goals a place to exist.
Sitting down to write goals can be a daunting exercise. After hours of staring at an empty google doc, it is very tempting to toggle to a new tab on your computer and instead scroll aimlessly through a social media feed. Um, at least that’s what people tell me. For those interested in some tools to get the process underway, a few small steps can make it a manageable task with tangible outcomes.
Narrow the Focus: Humans are complicated beings. Even those who excel at compartmentalization are motivated and fulfilled across multiple dimensions. Taking an integrated approach to goal setting allows your whole self to feel invested in your future. Before you start brainstorming on your goals, consider the five different areas that drive engagement for most people- professional growth, financial health, wellness, intellectual stimulation and social connections. Naturally, there may be additional categories and modification is always appropriate. However, start with a framework that takes into account the major drivers of engagement in your life.
Look at the Past: Those who are repulsed by anything that promotes creating from the past may be toggling back to their social media feed right now. However, there is tremendous value in reflecting on how to maintain or expand upon past achievements. New goals that stem from last year’s accomplishments are likely to be relevant to the overall direction you want for your future because you are building upon something that you know is fulfilling. Also, taking time to celebrate past accomplishments can be motivating and help maintain momentum going into the new year. This means taking a quick inventory of any promotions, PRs or family rituals and asking yourself if and how to elevate the game.
Remember Your “Why”: As you consider all the possibilities of the next 12 months, start by remembering WHY you ever said yes to the activities that consume your time and energy. Why did you take a job in this industry (i.e. What did you expect to accomplish or change)? Why did you agree to serve on this nonprofit board (i.e. What drove you to the mission)? Before embarking upon most professional and personal journeys, we have lofty ambitions. By reminding ourselves why we got into all the things that fill our calendar, we can reconnect to what we still hope to accomplish and revise our aspirations.
Seek Input: While some people find goal setting to be a very personal exercise, there can be benefit in seeking input from those who wholeheartedly believe in your abilities. Having someone point out your gifts can bring light to qualities you may not have known existed and give you confidence to tackle audacious challenges. Consider 2-3 trusted resources in your professional and personal network and solicit advice on what they deem the art of the possible for your future. You can take or leave their input but either way, you have an additional data point that can help inform you during the goal setting process.
While a ton more could be said about the proven tools and methods for setting goals, a few straightforward steps can jumpstart your goal setting process and position you for a fulfilling year.