GOALS — A simple 5-letter word that genuinely strikes fear, trepidation and loathing in the hearts and minds of millions of people all over the world. The question is WHY?
Studies have forever verified the fact that goal-setting has enhanced levels of productivity, achievement, and profitability for both individuals and organizations alike. Plain and simple! No questions asked!
Why then do so many people fear this most productive process?
Why then don’t more businesses teach, encourage, and support a process that has proven to be so beneficial?
I’ve met CEOs, Ph.D.s, entrepreneurs, and time-tested leaders who, although familiar with the goal-setting process, choose not to take advantage of it.
In fact, extensive national studies all agree that:
- Less than 5% of the population set goals!
- The vast majority have no goals at all!
- Less than 1% of those who do have goals, write them down!
Consider the value here. If you set goals, you have an definite advantage over 95% of the population!
If you write those goals down, programming your subconscious as a keyboard programs a computer, you have a major advantage over those few who do set goals!
The question remains: “Why don’t more people take advantage of the vast benefits provided as a result of utilizing such a simple but powerful strategy?”
Studies have revealed several reasons why people don’t set goals:
- People simply don’t understand the importance of goal-setting.
- People don’t know how to set goals.
- People have a fear of failure.
- People have a reluctance to meet expectations.
These reasons obviously outweigh the many benefits provided by the goal-setting process.
Pause for just a moment to take a look at the last year of any aspect of your life … business or personal. I think, if you’re honest, you’ll have to admit that you’ve experienced a great deal of change.
To cope and conquer the challenges of this constant change, successful goal-setting will be essential to both individuals and organizations.
Consider the simple process of strategic planning … in essence, fancy words for goal setting. Doesn’t it make sense to establish a big picture strategic plan for your organization and then follow through by having your middle management level do the same? This plan would reflect the chosen strategy for supporting the larger focus. The front-line staff should then create individual goals describing how they plan to support the corporate focus.
Organizations that have chosen this simplistic multi-level approach to strategic planning have enjoyed tremendous success! Ironically, this productive approach is based on the simple process of goal-setting.
Sadly, far too many businesses and organizations have yet to expose and involve their employees to this essential process. Our “On Your Mark, Get Set, Goal!” program does just that. Call us at 1-800-886-2629 for more information about this powerful program. In fact, set a goal to call us within the next 48 hours!
About Harry K. Jones
Harry K. Jones is a motivational speaker and consultant for AchieveMax®, Inc., a company of professional speakers who provide custom-designed seminars, keynote presentations, and consulting services. Harry's top requested topics include change management, customer service, creativity, employee retention, goal setting, leadership, stress management, teamwork, and time management. For more information on Harry's presentations, please call 800-886-2629 or fill out our contact form.