As we are in the final stretch of 2016 it’s the perfect time of year to reflect at what we’ve enjoyed, accomplished, endured, and never got to; and of our decisions, mistakes and failures. It’s also a time to look ahead for what a new year can bring. But should we be looking at past, present and future goals only once a year?
I believe the aversion to this is the time we allocate in reflecting and establishing our goals. As a mom, wife, businessperson, friend, community member, etc., I feel like many people! There are days that I could use Superwoman/man’s phone booth to make the quick change from one role to the next. Without a doubt I am my own worst obstacle and let myself become derailed from what I am doing.
We live in a fast-paced, respond-now, ever-changing and competitive time. We see friends share their successes and “perfect” lives on social media, adding to our own doubts and questions. Do you have friends who stress about their careers and children’s birthday parties because of what someone else posted on-line? Are we working to fulfill our own life’s objectives or reflect that of someone else’s?
I spent 8 years of my childhood in 4-H raising sheep and other animals. Every summer we competed in “shows” with awards in different categories. It took me 7 years to win the lead prize. For the life of me, I cannot recall what fair, what town or any of the details. What I do remember was the question I was asked at every show “who is the best showperson in this arena?” The answer was and is yourself. We need to pay attention to ourselves, to determine what we need to do to be the best “me” we can be. I always try to keep that in mind as I move forward with how I vision what I want and how I will achieve it.
As we go forward to 2017, I am sure we will all set goals, yet let’s make this year different! Let’s set goals to prioritize the things that are most important to us. In a recent article in Fast Company, high achievers, “reach their goals and then discover they were the wrong goals and the wrong path to get there. No one taught them how to set goals that would give them the life and the career they wanted.”
This year is a chance to set our goals for the right reasons. Let’s think about the following:
- What will it take to get to my destination? Focus more on the actions you need to take, that lead you in the right direction. This helps determine the time you will need to commit.
- What would I need to learn?
- What motivates me so that I will stay?
- Who could help me?
- Is this truly my passion?
In the end, if the goal doesn’t work, change it. Give yourself the time needed to review your journey. The goal is there to give you direction and happiness. Choose a path that will be personally rewarding and no longer seem like a burden but part of who you are. All this is easier said than done. Consider writing them down, communicate and collaborate with others on how they can help. Create a plan, check it regularly, have a mentor, and be the best you. Be willing to change your goal(s) if it does not fit. Cheers to a successful 2017!
About the Author: Adrienne Mollor, Senior Partner, MCG Partners
About MCG Partners
MCG Partners a woman-owned, Greater Boston-based consultancy specializing in executive coaching, leadership development, talent management, and organizational development solutions. We help businesses optimize success through the entire management life-cycle. MCG Partners is also a Predictive Index® (PI®) certified partner.
To learn more about MCG Partners’ services or The Predictive Index®, contact John Griffith at john.griffith@mcgpartners.com or visit mcgpartners.com.
