We’re still close enough to the beginning of the new year to continue our discussion about how to make your promise and promises a reality. I know that because it seems like everyone still is offering lots of tips and suggestions for making this year your big year to achieve your goals both in and out of the office.
Some suggestions are better than others, and some factors are absolutely crucial to success.
A while back someone called me to talk about a strategic plan. During our conversation, I asked her if her company already had a strategic plan in place or if they have had one in the past. She said something I’ve heard before: They came up with a strategic plan several years ago, met a few times to implement it and then it ended up on the backburner.
She said they wanted me to help them develop a new strategic plan, and then they would count on me to keep them focused on it year after year. I told her I don’t help leadership teams “do” a strategic plan; I help them develop a vibrant and living plan that gets updated on a regular (at least yearly) basis. I can help them craft a strong, well-thought-out plan that also is flexible enough to accommodate company and industry changes, but they have to be the ones to make it work.
And this gets me to the most important factor when it comes to keeping your promises this year and achieving your goals.
It’s not writing down your goals and posting them to your screensaver. (Although that’s a great idea.) It’s not planning for inevitable setbacks—although that’s important, too. It’s not choosing goals that you’re passionate about, although that helps. It’s not about having accountability from a business coach or a workout partner (although accountability is crucial). It’s not even what I suggested in my previous blog—doing the most important tasks first each day. (Although that’s sound advice that you can review here: https://www.corsini.com/advice-from-ivy-lee/.)
The most essential element to achieving success is finishing. It’s simply finishing what you start. Zig Ziglar said, “Most of us are good starters but poor finishers,” and those words are true. Most of us have good intentions—but intentions will only get you so far, and too often that’s not very far at all.
In work and in life, there are many more “launch parties” than “landing parties.” There are more kickoff events than congratulatory celebrations because finishing takes time, attention and a whole lot of effort.
Be a finisher. Establish your purpose and goals, and then have the discipline and persistence—and consistent focus—to realize your goals and achieve what’s important to you and your company.
Use all the effective ideas listed above, but, most importantly, finish what you start. Do that and not only will you do what you do better, but you’ll also keep some important promises along the way.
Recent Comments