The new year stands before us, like a chapter in a book, waiting to be written. We can help write that story by setting goals.
— Melody Beattie
New Year. New Chapter. New Goals.
Some of us have started writing our 2022 goals, others have completed them, and many are still thinking about what they would like to accomplish.
- As we start the New Year it’s time for reflection. (Yes, we’re saying it again!).
- What goals were we able to accomplish in 2021?
- What goals need to be continued into 2022?
- What barriers existed that prevented goal attainment or made them difficult to achieve?
- How can we address those barriers? Who can help?
- Are new skills required that are currently not available?
- Is there buy-in to support the goals?
Are the right people in the right jobs?If you are having difficulty getting started think about what needs to be done at the granular level. Consider what actions are required, who can support them (and how), and set timeframes. Some leaders also like to have stretch goals that are difficult to achieve but may inspire some to do more.
Once your goals are documented, cascade them to everyone that can (or is expected) to support attaining them.
It’s also important that each individual understands how they can help achieve the goal. Ex. How can their expertise be utilized? How can they assist “key” players? Expectations and roles need to be clear, and how progress will be measured must be shared.
Here’s a recap for goals.
- They bring 100 percent clarity to your vision and mission
- They require action
- They must include: What, When, How, by Whom with Dates
- Think in terms of SMART: Specific, Measurable, Actionable/Achievable, Realistic, Timebound
As a leader:
- How do you make the Goals meaningful to your team and how do you obtain buy-in?
- How often are Goals reviewed for progress and obstacles addressed that impede success?
Let us know if we can help!
People with goals succeed because they know where they are going.
–Earl Nightingale