December, 2007

Achieving Goals Begins and Ends with Commitment
By Tim Trotter

Well, another year has passed. People are in the midst of the holiday rush. It is a time that many people enjoy.  For others the holidays are stressful.

Similarly, some people have realized their year-long pursuit of goals, while many have not. What separates the people who achieve from the ones who don’t?

The difference is found in two common factors. Whether you are looking at your business, organization or your personal goals the same applies to both.

First, did you set goals? If so, do your goals fit your needs and objectives? For some people, goals are set in their minds, but they lack connection to everyday lives and activities. If those goals are not shared with others, a lack of buy-in or support may result. As leaders, sharing goals with the organization is critical.

How can you have that common call to action if people are not aware and have an opportunity to help and share in that effort? Sharing your goals and making sure you have a measurement, timeline and action plan to obtain them is vital.

The same applies to personal goals. Share your goals with your family or close friends. Let them help you and encourage them to do the same. That support system is important and does exist. Use it.

Secondly, don’t just agree to accomplish your goal, be committed to it. I make this analogy many times. We all agree to do things, but really don’t have the passion or commitment to follow through with them. When you are truly passionate about something, results often follow. If you are not passionate about your goal, something is wrong and you will not achieve it.

Goals should inspire you and your organization. It is no different having a shared vision. People need to “see and feel” the benefits of goals and how goals can help them. When they do, the chances of obtaining goals are real.

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