From the course: Lead Like a Boss

Goals are not enough

From the course: Lead Like a Boss

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Goals are not enough

- For decades we've been talking about how awesome goals are, the link we know exists between goals and productivity and success. Fine, I agree, goals are wonderful. But I think we're missing an important part of the conversation. I mean, anyone can write down a decent goal, right? Forever we've known wonderful models that make goals work. Maybe the most well-known model concerning goal setting is the SMART model. That stands for Specific, Measurable, Aligned, Reachable, and Time Bound. No doubt that's useful, but hey just because someone followed a model does that mean they're going to reach their goals? Of course not, they need more. If you want to be successful with goal setting, you have to have resilience, understand sacrifice, and understand perspective. Resilience, it means under tough conditions you stay focused and get things done. You know, we used to call it gumption or intestinal fortitude. It's the ability to withstand pressure while staying focused. Sacrifice, hey, success takes time. You won't get to see every family event. Sometimes you won't put the kids to bed. Those are necessary investments because success always takes sacrifice. Finally, remember to keep perspective, and that's more than just seeing sacrifice as an investment. It's about seeing every new challenge with a glass half-full mentality. Hey, is that pile of work sitting in front of you a headache, something you have to worry about? Or is it a chance to step up, prove yourself to the team, and make a real mark? Is your crazy boss something you have to detest and loathe, or is that person a great teacher, teaching you all the things you won't do when you step into a leadership role? Hey, goals are interesting. They're useful, they're important, and yes, they probably should be smart. But I want you to be smart too. Remember to think about sacrifice, resilience and perspective, and that's when goals lead to real achievement.

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