I was recently working with a coaching candidate on setting personal goals. I asked him what he wanted, and he proceeded to tell me all the things that he “could” do. It’s not that he was wrong. In fact, he was right. Everything he mentioned was something he could conceivably do, and even do well. This particular attorney is very very smart, with an MBA, and has experience that will enable him to go in a variety of directions.
The problem is that by answering the exercise with what he felt was possible, he had totally neglected to focus on what it is that he really wants. And the reality is that, being human beings, we are far more likely to pursue and accomplish goals that are based on what we really want. In fact, it is the goals that are linked to the strongest wants, to our true desires, that are most likely to be achieved.
So think about what you really want – your strongest desires. Not just the “cans” or the “should” or the “possible” or even the “would likes”.
What is it you REALLY desire? If your goals start there, with something you truly desire, you will have no trouble putting in the effort to achieve your goals, and you will begin to see opportunities that others will miss. Don’t limit yourself before you even begin by only thinking about possibilities – start by deciding what you really want, and begin moving towards those goals. These are the goals that you will be able to most effectively pursue and achieve.
“If one advances confidently in the direction of one’s dreams, and endeavors to live the life which one has imagined, one will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.” Henry David Thoreau
