Goals Don’t Achieve Themselves

You know that thing you really want, but haven’t accomplished yet…what’s stopping you? Let’s assume indifference isn’t the culprit. Two of the biggest barriers to success are ambiguity and overload—in other words, purpose and manageable steps. Goals don’t achieve themselves, let’s dig into what you want and plan for success.

Wishes and goals are not created equal

First, we need clarity. What do you want to achieve? Big or little doesn’t matter. You need 1 clearly defined main goal. Let’s say, you want to rebrand your website. Awesome. Everybody likes a makeover every so often.

Now, no matter how many thoughts you think, that website is not going to rebrand itself. You need to act. Wishes and goals are not created equal. Wishes are like fluffy white clouds. They’re cute and make us feel good, but they drift along wherever the wind carries them.

On the other hand, goals are intentional. When you link your desires with action, success is much more likely.

Start with your purpose and follow with planning

Everyone loves to use the Proverbs 31 woman as a model. Yes, she’s a great representation of a godly woman’s characteristics. No, the Proverbs 31 woman is not a real woman. King Lemuel’s mother was describing the type of woman his son should seek.

Trustworthy. Ambitious. Diligent. Dependable. Thoughtful. Aware. Proactive. Brave. Strong. Kind. Wise. Praiseworthy.

She fears the Lord and seeks his glory. Start with your purpose and follow with planning.  What is God’s purpose for you? How is your unique collection of gifts and abilities tied to the right opportunities ahead?

Rebranding your website might seem like just one more item on your to-do list, or it could feel like an innumerable heap of steps you can’t begin to untangle. Either way, your next step is the same. After you state your goal, it’s time to make a plan.

Break down your big goal into achievable steps. If you want to rebrand your website, your first step might be researching what “rebranding” means other than just creating a new logo or swapping your color pallet. Maybe, your first step is to find someone to help. Either way, list out your steps because goals don’t achieve themselves. You must act.

Goals don’t achieve themselves

Goals come in all shapes, sizes, and timeframes. Maybe instead of a website, you want to reorganize your home office/ distance learning/ former dining room. How about your personal bible study time? Could it use some structure? All of these goals benefit from the same process—remember your purpose, clarify your goals, and define reasonable steps.

Our friend in Proverbs 31 gives us great examples. Before successfully running a vineyard, she first saves her money, then she finds the land, purchases the land, and plants the seeds. This is years’ worth of effort and planning. (Proverbs 31:16) Caring for her family is obviously also a priority. Thus, she gets up early, has the supplies she needs, and cooks for her family and staff. (Proverbs 31:15)

Until you decide your desires are goal-worthy as opposed to here today-gone tomorrow wishes, success will be scarce. Clarify your purpose, create manageable steps, and dedicate yourself to the hard work ahead because goals don’t achieve themselves.

Your next steps

Create your own purpose planner and give yourself a framework to make decisions. Download my simple 1-page purpose planner to get started.

Clarify your goal and create manageable steps. My 1-page goal guide can you connect the steps between where you are today and where you want to go. Download your goal guide now.