We often set goals without thinking a whole lot about them…
We might set a number for revenue, customer acquisition or retention, or work/life balance without considering whether it’s reasonable, attainable, or if it’s even what you really want! Sometimes we set goals just because we feel like we should, but we don’t take the time to map out the steps that will actually get us where we want to go.
You’ve probably heard about setting SMART goals, and you know that your plans for your business should be:
· Specific
· Measurable
· Attainable
· Relevant
· Time Sensitive
The SMART strategy is very effective, but it might not be enough to create the business AND the life you’ve been dreaming about. So, let’s take it a step further. Let’s dive in a little deeper and look at how you can set goals that truly support your vision for your business and your life.
Before you sit down for your next planning and strategy session, ask yourself these important questions:
1. What am I Passionate About?
Why did you start your business? Think back to that first spark of inspiration that fueled your fire and made you SO excited that you took an enormous leap of faith and set out to forge your own path and create the business of your dreams. Focus on the things that excite you about your business, the ones that get you out of bed each morning.
When you take the time to really think about what you want from your business, you can set goals that energize and motivate you. After all, what’s the point of setting a goal if you don’t get REALLY excited about achieving it?
2. What Can I Realistically Control?
Revenue and project-based goals are awesome- as long as they’re attainable. Things are kind of crazy in the post-pandemic world. We’re still struggling with supply chain issues, labor shortages, and a shaky economy, and you can’t control ANY of it.
Goals should not rely on external factors or people to be attainable, so build your goals for your business around KPIs you CAN control.
3. How Will My Goals Impact My Future?
Your business funds your lifestyle, and your goals need to support both! You need to think about what you want to achieve now, next year, and 5 years down the road. You’re creating a long-term plan that you achieve through a series of steps, so set goals that benefit your business today and build the future of your dreams.
Whether it’s more money, more time, a bigger house, or a better car, the goals you set today will help you get there tomorrow.
4. How Will My Goals Benefit My Team?
You’re all in this together, and your team should reap as many benefits from your goals as you do. Turn goal setting into a team effort by brainstorming together and choosing the objectives that will be prosperous for every member of your team.
5. Is This REALLY What I Want?
We often set revenue-based goals without really thinking about it, but remember, money isn’t everything! Before you set your goals, think about what will truly make life better for you and your team. You might find that more flexibility or more free time matters more than a few extra dollars. Talk to your team and strategize on goals that will make everyone happy.
Asking yourself these questions helps you assess what you really want for your business, your team, and your lifestyle rather than just going along for the ride. You’ve clearly defined the outcomes you want to achieve, and now you can start building strategies around them rather than just wishing and hoping.
Start turning your goals into action plans and create the steps that map a clear path to your goals. You’ll need to set long-term objectives with lots of short-term milestones to ensure that you stay firmly on the path to your ultimate vision.
You may not be able to control the future, but with clearly defined goals and an actionable plan, you’ll be motivated, excited, and ready to conquer any challenge that dares to get in your way!
