Setting goals is an important step in achieving any kind of progress or achievement. But many of us find it difficult to follow through on long-term goals, or even short-term.
There are many reasons for this difficulty, but in order to get anything done, I’ve learned not to spend time analyzing it but instead focus on solving the problem. I have come up with one word that can inspire me, drive me and get me to accomplish the things I have put off
I ask myself seven simple questions, and the answer to all seven is most powerful word that can get the job done.
The word is NOW!
Now means at this direct time, in this very moment, without even the smallest delay regardless of the circumstances. If you want to succeed and attain your goals, make NOW the answer to these questions:
1. When should you create a plan? NOW
Although goals are important, having a plan of action is vital to attaining those goals. Having a goal without a plan of action is like waiting to travel to a new destination without a map. Action without planning is fatal and planning without action is futile. Start creating plans NOW.
2. When should you start focusing? NOW
there is so much to be distracted by and so much to lose interest in. If you want to succeed in your goals, you have to start focusing right now. It’s easy to fall into the trap of unfocused goals, especially if you have too many goals at once. Lock a laser focus onto your big goal. It must be front and center in your life.
3. When is a good time to start? NOW
So many people get caught up in this unhelpful mindset: “I’m not really ready, so I don’t think I should start yet.” But if you want to succeed, the best time to begin is now. No more procrastinating, no more excuses. The time to begin is starting right now. The first step toward getting anything done is deciding you’re not going to stay where you are.
4. When does it need to be done? NOW
Without action a goal is just a vision; our actions put our intentions into play. Wanting will never be enough to make anything good happen. If someone were watching your day-to-day activities would they be able to see what you are working toward, what your goals are? if the answer is no, fix it now. Consistent action creates consistent results.
5. When will it be important? NOW
The truth is only a few things can be really important in any given moment. If it’s important, you should be taking it seriously. Now is the time to focus on what really matters–make what is important a priority.
6. When is the deadline? NOW
Goals without deadlines are like a race without an end. You need a finish line to define your goal and your timeline. Visions come true when a deadline meets a goal and actions move ahead on a schedule.
7. When should you start believing in your goals? NOW
Belief is important when it comes to achieving goals. Most of us need belief in order to work hard and succeed. There will always be critics, doubters, and people who want to see you fail. Don’t listen to them. Listen to the inner voice that drives you and motivates you–but it needs to begin NOW.
What are you waiting for?
N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
THE LEADERSHIP GAP
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- 12 Successful Leadership Principles That Never Grow Old
- A Leadership Manifesto: A Guide To Greatness
- How to Succeed as A New Leader
- 12 of The Most Common Lies Leaders Tell Themselves
- 4 Proven Reasons Why Intuitive Leaders Make Great Leaders
- The One Quality Every Leader Needs To Succeed
- The Deception Trap of Leadership
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.