Goal setting is about getting what you want…
Sometimes (especially in times of significant change) goal setting seems rather pointless. We often say to ourselves ‘there is so much we cannot control – it is too hard to plan.’ But if you don’t plan – and set goals, then how will you experience ‘success’? If you don’t set goals – how do you know what you want or where you are going? I think of goals as the scorecard to the plan. They are tangible and accountable.
“The only thing in your control is effort. That’s all and that’s everything.”
As they say. It’s fantastic to see border restrictions easing (again) and increased consumer buoyancy. There really is a feeling of just getting on with things the best we can, knowing at times there may be setbacks, but with more confidence that we can handle the year ahead.
As the economy and small business begin to recover, it’s important to take the time to set goals for the year ahead, both in business and in our personal lives. I think of all those athletes who prepared for the Olympics last year, then had the postponement. They had to reset goals, begin their preparations once again, and are still in an environment of uncertainty. However, they’ve adjusted and continue to work towards achieving their goals, using the best information they have at this moment.
It’s no different in business. While there may not always be certainty in the areas we can’t control, we must set goals and document the necessary steps required to achieve them to provide a roadmap. There is never 100% certainty with things, you have to go on the information you have at the time and make some best guesses.
Surprisingly, a number of businesses don’t take the time to set goals, they get caught up in the daily operations or are waiting for that certainty to come. But without goals, how do you prioritise your efforts? How do you ensure everyone knows what you’re trying to achieve, and how to go about it? It doesn’t have to be a complicated process, in fact, many leading companies use a simple method –OKRs (Objectives and Key Results).
As McKinsey forecasts, “2021 will be the year of transition. Barring any unexpected catastrophes, individuals, businesses, and society can start to look forward to shaping their futures rather than just grinding through the present. The next normal is going to be different. It will not mean going back to the conditions that prevailed in 2019.”
So, while leisure travel rebounds, and we all start to grow our confidence in booking our next holidays, albeit local, we must recognise that there is a new normal. Business travel will recommence, but it will be different. Workplaces will start to see their people moving back into offices, however, maybe not five days a week.
“Shoot for the moon, even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”
The innovators will thrive as there is a distinct moment of opportunity to meet the new needs of people. Whether it be digitally enabled productivity, or discovering new resources who couldn’t traditionally travel into offices, but can work from home. Demand for products will shift, as many people have reset priorities, now focused on experiences rather than acquiring more physical things. As throughout last year, we’ve all had the chance to decide what’s important, and what we should spend our time on.
I see 2021 very much as a year of opportunity. To find our feet within the new normal, to redefine ourselves and our businesses in a new era of the way we work and adapt. I think communities will continue to come together, as supporting local business has never been more important. Whether the local butcher, retail outlet or café, they need us, and we need them. As without our support, they will not prosper, and the communities in which we live, will start to diminish.
So, take some time, set your goals, and go forward with your roadmap. As they say, it’s about the journey and not the destination, however, you do always need to know what direction you’re going.
“Your dream doesn’t have an expiration date. Take a deep breath, and try again.”
This year I have set several personal as well as business goals. Our theme for the year is discovery. I have planned (and booked) a few short breaks to places I have not been before – (or not for a long time). We have booked Lord Howe Island, North Coast NSW and a trip to Far NQ.
The Tourism Australia ‘Holiday Here This Year’ to which BRG is a partner will give you lot’s of food for thought. It’s time to discover and explore the splendour of our backyard. What about you?
Also published on Medium.
