Goal achievement begins with a detailed vision for the future. Yet manifesting that vision requires wise planning.
A purposeful plan is like a guiding light in tough times. It keeps us focused on priorities and goals that are aligned with our values and purpose.
Thomas Edison spoke of the value in planning when he said, "Being busy does not always mean real work. The object of all work is production or accomplishments, and to either of these ends there must be forethought, system planning, intelligence, and honest purpose, as well as perspiration. Seeming to do is not doing."
People often know exactly what they want to achieve. However, they have no idea what the first step should be. Describing their vision out loud, they might realize that they need more information or skills. They become aware of potential hazards hiding in uninformed decisions. They also discover interests and capabilities that they didn't realize they had.
As coaches, we help them to shine a light down the path ahead, to form a clearer view of the destination and also the potential obstacles and detours. We assist them to stay focused on the overall vision as well as on those sometimes agonizing small details.
Soon the person begins to form an initial plan. The first few steps become clear, and the individual can begin to move forward purposefully. The satisfaction of the first small accomplishment can lead to the enthusiasm needed to continue the journey ahead.
There is an unmistakable shift, a gleam of excitement in the eye of someone who discovers that their dream is possible. That discovery often begins when they create an initial plan. A plan gives a sense of reality to a dream.
Begin today. Create a compelling vision of what your life will look like five years from now. Then ask yourself, "What is my plan for making that vision a reality?
Here is a great quote to remember, written by Grace Speare:
"Think and feel yourself there! To achieve any aim in life, you need to project the end result. Think of the elation, the satisfaction, the joy! Carrying the ecstatic feeling will bring the desired goal into view."
Planning is a powerful action that will bring you many rewards throughout the years to come!
Intention to reach a goal or achieve a life-long dream rises above doubt and discouragement. Intention reflects an unstoppable resolve. It gives an energetic feeling that says, "This will be done, and I'mnotgoing to quit!"
There is quite a difference between good intentions, or "well-meaning thoughts," and intending resolutely to stick with a goal until it's reached. Firm intention rather than merely wishing carries a driving power that helps to manifest achievement.
Earl Nightingale said, "The more intensely we feel about an idea or a goal, the more assuredly the idea, buried deep in our subconscious, will direct us along the path to its fulfillment."
Desire and hope are certainly positive aspects of creative thought. Achievement begins with a strong desire. Yet intention's components of confidence, faith, deliberateness, determination, and commitment add tremendous guidance and forward movement.
Think of something you would like to have. For example, perhaps you would like to have more abundance, creativity, success in career, or rewarding relationships.
Now, ask yourself these questions:
What are the highest priorities in my life?
What commitments am I willing to make in order to nurture and obtain my priorities?
What goals do I intend to set that will transform my life in a positive way?
What actions would empower me to keep a steady focus on keeping my commitments?
What new patterns of thought and action do I need to establish to achieve my goals?
What are the greatest gifts that my goals will give me when they are achieved?
What skills am I determined to master in order to reach my goals?
When do I intend to begin taking action to reach my goals?
Consider how different these two statements feel when spoken aloud-how the second statement gives a feeling of energy and completion:
"Here is what I want to accomplish today."
"Here is what I intend to accomplish today!"
