If we’ve learned anything during the past two years, it’s that — as leaders and as humans — we are adaptable, our goals can be adaptable, and we can restart.
Between 2020 and now, some goals shifted, some were thrown out the window, and some we were able to hang on to regardless of what was happening around us. However, no matter what the next two years look like, we can try to find balance as we continue to lead our organizations and personal lives.
If this new year continues to throw us curveballs, the great thing is, we are adaptable. With an initial plan, we just need to reevaluate and adjust when things don’t go according to that plan. So join us as we talk about focusing on your professional and personal goals.
In this episode of the One Next Step podcast, Tricia Sciortino and I break down personal and professional goals that are important for leaders.
One of the biggest aspects of goal setting is simply knowing yourself and where you want to go.
This may be more difficult than it sounds.
But the point is that you can’t possibly make yourself better through goal-setting, personally or professionally, without having some idea of who you are, what you truly want, and the why behind all of it.
Are these truly your goals? Or are they ideas that have been pushed on you by others – a parent, a spouse, or someone else who might have misjudged your desires? Working through these issues will help you make more sound, reasonable goals that truly represent what you want.
Goals can sometimes be seasonal depending on when you’re busier at work and when you’re able to invest more time into your personal or family life.
You matter. And choosing to make yourself a better person is absolutely a worthy cause.
Don’t get caught up in self-guilt that says you’re being selfish or inconsiderate by having your own hopes and dreams. You can look out for others while you work on your own goals – it isn’t an either-or situation.
You can have a great career where you're investing and putting in the time, energy and effort you should to be successful grow while spending time on family life, community and friendships. You can do all of the things. It just requires a lot boundary creating and planning.
Start slow, take it easy on yourself, and start responsibly with goal setting.
One of the worst things you can do when goal-setting is to shoot too high and too far. Take it easy, especially when starting.
Consider possibly just making one or two goals in each area of your life – and make sure your goals are attainable. You want them to be specific, measurable, written down, achievable, and with a time limit. These are the keys to good goal setting.
If you have a goal that is set for a few months away, break it down and have daily or weekly tasks to work your way toward making the win possible. Sharing these goals with those who are close to you can help with the accountability of succeeding as well.