What makes a clear and compelling Goal?

By Ken Ingram

To write this month’s article I decided a little research was required, so I pulled out a few of the books that I read in 2007. I was looking for inspiration on Goal setting, but more importantly something that I felt you would find interesting and of value. If you have never read the book, Built to Last you should. You will learn about the Successful habits of visionary companies. In 1952, Boeing engineers decided to build commercial jets, an audacious goal at the time since they did not have any presence in the commercial aircraft market. Those of you who know the Aerospace market know that nothing is a given and each aircraft program is a challenge from start to finish. However, once the goal is set there can be no turning back Failure is not an option. In 1965, Boeing launched the 747 and the project nearly killed the company. Boeing is an excellent example of companies who push the envelope and set Audacious goals to stimulate growth. So did President Kennedy when he decided to put a man on the Moon. A Goal should be clear and compelling. Therefore, here is an exercise I like to do every year for The Achievement Centre Coaching and is the same exercise I do with our clients.

For your business;
· List 5 High Points from 2007.
· List 5 Low Point from 2007.
· List the 5 things you accomplished in 2007.
· List the 5 disappointments or regrets you experienced in 2007?
· What do you feel were your greatest Lessons learned in 2007
· In moving forward in 2008 what are the 5 most important things you want to accomplish?
· What are the action steps required in 2008 to achieve each of your 5 goals?
· What else do you need to do differently over the next 6 to 12 months to achieve each of
your 5 goals?

Remember this is only the first step in the process. Until one is committed-there is hesitancy. The good news is by completing the exercise you become one of a small percentage of businesses who have written down their goals! Next step is to create a more precise strategy and timeline. Statistically this means you are 80% more likely to succeed in achieving your company goals.

"Of all the things I’ve done. The most vital is coordinating the talents of those who work for us and pointing them towards a certain goal".
Author Walter Elias Disney

Do you have the audacity to be the master of your companies Goals in 2008?

Growing your business - intelligently!Faites prospérer votre entreprise - intelligemment!