Will You Meet Your Goals This Year?

As you head toward the end of the year, you’re likely thinking about what you most want to  accomplish over the next couple of months — trying to squeeze in that last bit of business activity before the holidays arrive.

You might feel like you’re pushing toward the end of a marathon  — running out of steam, losing energy, allowing your body to move on autopilot just to cross the finish line.

That’s one strategy.

But there are a couple of better ways to gain momentum — to get a second wind to carry you across the finish line. (It’s really not a finish line. It’s the starting line for next year.)

1. Catch your breath to review your progress. That’s right. Stop what you’re doing for a minute.

If you’re having trouble making your list, I’ll take you through a little exercise to help in a moment.

Many executives are too busy to take the time to acknowledge progress. Although you may hold regular meetings for team members to “report in” on their action items, it’s not the same as taking a broader look at progress made over the course of a year.

• List the key accomplishments or milestones that occurred. Note any challenges you overcame and how you did so.

• What worked well?

• What did you learn?
  

Great! Now you’ve got some talking points to share with your team.

Seeing your progress is motivating.

Imagine the implications of this concept with your team. When they can see the progress they’re making, they will become more energized.

Studies have shown that “support for making progress” is one of the most important factors that can influence motivation at work.

(For more about managing progress, you might enjoy my print newsletter on the topic.You can find it in the Resources Section below.)

2. Imagine your best future — or at least the best picture of the year ahead.

It’s too easy to dwell on problems.

If I asked you to describe what you are most looking forward to in the year ahead, what would you say?

What would be most exciting to accomplish?

Where are your best opportunities?

Think about:

• The impact you can and want to make next year.
• The role you want to play.
• The people with whom you want to work.
• The partnerships you want to create.

Start the thinking process NOW. These are important issues that deserve your attention.

Let your ideas simmer over the next few days. 

Don’t put pressure on yourself to figure out everything in one sitting. Strategic thinking takes time.

Your optimism about your future will help you gain more momentum heading into the New Year.

You’ll give yourself a running start.

So…

The secret to a strong finish is preparing for a strong start — taking a little time to reflect on your progress and to imagine compelling new possibilities.