Realistically … which of these three options would most likely predict your results in 2017?
#1 – Took the initiative and did the work required – including physical, mental and spiritual work – to celebrate amazing results,
#2 – Took some actions, watched others take actions and hoped for similar results, or
#3 – On December 31, 2017, asked yourself and your team, “What the heck happened?”
Last week we addressed 3 basics for goal setting and 9 hidden truths that are often overlooked (Your 2017 Goals are Meant to be Achieved http://wp.me/p2POui-11A). In this article, we will delve further into the basics of goal setting. Without incorporating these basics into the goal-setting and action-taking processes, you and your team will default into #3 listed above!
First Basic — Make Your Written Goals Specific
Create Your Team. You cannot go it alone! Ask the right people (people that have an interest or will be impacted by the goal) to join. Keep the group small and manageable, while ensuring they are committed to achieving the end results. Don’t forget to provide ongoing training on how to conduct effective meetings, and how to effectively work with and through each other to achieve intended results.
Complete 2016. It may feel easier to ignore what happened during 2016! (Especially, if you weren’t happy with the results.) However, objectively reviewing successes and failures opens up new possibilities. Review 2016. What worked? What didn’t work? Then, acknowledge each person for their contributions. (See, 5 Simple Steps to Improve Your Results, http://ow.ly/1KEG305HHpt)
Brainstorm. Now, and only now, it’s time to truly brainstorm. Write down (or electronically capture) all ideas by asking each and every person to share! Include everyone’s thoughts and don’t quickly latch onto the first or second idea that appears to be “the one.” Also, do not succumb to an idea due to someone’s position in the company or because they are the loudest.
Write the Goals. By looking at your goals in black and white, it’s easier for everyone to make adjustments, fine-tune and double check numbers. Keep the goal simple and smart, and no longer than 20 words. This process engages everyone and has them on the same page.
Be Specific. Declare numeric results, and establish milestones and deadlines to reinforce goals.
Times 10. Take the numeric result and multiply it by 10. For example, if you wish to achieve $1MM, multiply it by 10 to equal $10MM. Why? The brainpower of your team is now engaged in, how are we going to accomplish that?
Cut in Half. Now, cut the milestones and deadlines in half. For example, if the deadline is December 31, 2017, it now becomes June 30, 2017. This exercise has everyone engaged to find the resources, communicate with others and focus on progressing forward now!
Second Basic – Take Focused-Action Steps
Focused-Action Steps. With the real goal and true deadline established, start with the end result and work backwards to create a timeline for focused action steps. This will help you see every critical stage required to accomplish your goal.
24 Hours Later. Setup your timeline, schedule conversations and take at least one action now! If you put off doing this important step, it will only create procrastination, send off the team chasing shiny-objects and leave everyone frustrated. Stay focused and in focused-action!
Third Basic – Track Your Progress
Manage and Track Progress. Design simple motivational visuals and communication methods to keep everyone on the same page and in focused-action. Review current results each day (week, month and quarter) to ensure everyone is on track. Ask the right questions when stuck, “What needs to happen right now? Why does it need to be done that way? How will it support our intention? How can we help each other move forward?”
Celebrate! Celebrate all victories, large and small.
Do not change the goal to fit the actions taken! Let me repeat this very important point, do not change the goal to fit the actions taken! If you change the goal, this easy way out will not provide the intended results and is counter-productive for developing a healthy high-functioning team. (See #2 in the beginning.) When you and the team go off-track, contact the boss or coach for objective insights to get back on the right track. Do it now.
Brag! Share new brag factors reflecting your achievements. These remind everyone of the progress being made and keep everyone engaged. It’s Time to Brag! Business Edition (http://BizSavvyBrag.com)
Following these 3 basics for goal setting will give keep you in action pursuing your intended results.
Next week, stay tune for how to effectively handle the 9 hidden truths that are often overlooked.
©Jeannette Seibly, 2017
Ready? Create a powerful 2017. Contact Jeannette Seibly @ http://SeibCo.com/contact She will guide you through an amazing exercise designed to complete 2016 and prepare you for a great 2017! One client sold her company for $.5M by completing the exercise yearly, prior to the sale!
Why is it important to learn how to brag? Being aware of your successes helps you take actions consistent with your commitment to achieve amazing results! Get your copy of, It’s Time to Brag! Business Edition today: http://BizSavvyBrag.com.
Jeannette Seibly is an international, award-winning business advisor. During the past 24 years, she has guided the creation of three millionaires and achieved million-dollar results for more than 25 companies. She is laser sharp at identifying the leverage points that will take a business and its team to the next level of performance and success. Check out her website, http://SeibCo.com , or contact Jeannette for a free, confidential conversation at http://SeibCo.com/contact. Remember to get your copy of her 5th and newest book, It’s Time to Brag! Business Edition: http://BizSavvyBrag.com.