Ready, Set, Goals: Taking Action!
The past three weeks we have been running a series on Goal Achievement.
Setting Goals: How to Lead the Team to Success with Goal Setting
Planning Goals: The Three Non-Negotiables
Taking Action: It’s all in the approach!
This week, we focus on Taking Action. There are many different approaches to achievement. Yet the best leaders, including Jeff Bezos, Peter Drucker, and Tom Peters, all agree on one principle: The best leaders have a bias for action.
Some of us are more naturally inclined toward action, while others excel in designing a strong vision. (I created a diagnostic tool called The Compass Insights Profiler to help you learn more about your achievement style)
The important part of goal attainment is to fight off the tendency to overthink, over-plan, or second-guess yourself. Just act – even if it is a small step in the right direction. The momentum of making progress is crucial.
Here are a few points to ponder on your approach to taking action:
Start before you are ready.The subtle art of making progress takes into account the feedback you receive by starting before you are perfect. It actually makes it easier because you anticipate that there are faults you may not see. You can soften the blow by starting with “friendlies.” There is authenticity in acknowledging that you don’t have everything completely figured out.
Commit to daily action steps.I recommend breaking the day into three buckets: actions that grow your business (recruitment, team leadership), actions that deliver your service, and actions that grow your customers (sales).a. What are one or two skills or habits in each area of your business where taking action would have the biggest impact?
Plan forward, ACT, and measure backward.This has been a game-changer in my journey toward leading achievement. I have always set goals and taken action. However, last year I started using a Measure Backward calendar. Every day, I enter three actions that take me closer to my goals. Recently, I added an accountability buddy, which gives me a sense of being seen and recognized for my work. We all need recognition, and instead of waiting for it, ask for it from those who care about your success.
a. According to Harvard Business Review, measuring progress increases your success by 33%.b. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin highlights that accountability promotes self-efficacy—the belief in one’s ability to achieve goals.
Prioritize action on ONE thing.The to-do list is endless. There will always be more ideas than time. The key to successful action is to identify what matters most. In my experience, it is rarely the first thing that comes to mind. Take time to empty your head of all the possible options, then narrow the list.
What's the ONE Thing you can do such that by doing it,
everything else will be easier or unnecessary?
– Gary Kelle
Start with the thing you love.There is no doubt that working on the most important priorities matters, but let’s be honest—it can be tough to get started. Instead of doing unimportant or distracting things, start with something productive that you LOVE to do. For me, it is writing. a. What is the one thing you love above all else in your business that could start the day off right?
The “goal-getting” journey is both fulfilling and frustrating. It ebbs and flows with the level of our enthusiasm and willpower. The most successful achievers know how to set exciting goals that thrill all of the senses. They never just arrive or strive; instead, they become who they were born to be.
Set goals + plan + act = achieve.
Wishing you everything you want – you can do it! I know you can.
Let’s do this – together!
The Book Shelf – Books I Love to Inspire Your Journey
Never give up on your dreams! When I read Angela Duckworth's Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, it felt like she was speaking directly to me. Duckworth’s core message—that success comes from sustained passion and effort over time—reminded me that setbacks are not failures; they’re part of the journey.
Whether you’ve pursued a dream for years or recently felt inspired to think bigger, remember that the rewards come through persistence. Keep going! You’ve got this. And if you need encouragement or a fresh perspective, read this book—it will inspire you to embrace challenges and take action!
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