VGS The Power Of Planning
The Power of Planning
How important is planning? A well known study of Yale University graduating seniors
determined that only five percent of the class had written down clearly defined goals for
the future.
Twenty years later the researchers interviewed the goal setters and non-goal setters.
The researchers discovered the goal setters in the class were happier and more
productive than the 95 percent who didn't set goals. Interestingly, the goal setters also
had a greater net worth than the non-goal setters. But the truly mind-blowing fact was
that the five percent who set goals had a greater net worth than the remaining 95
percent combined.
Over the years, I have been a fairly disciplined goal setter, but at one time I wasn't
good about defining concrete plans to attain those goals. Setting goals simply is the first
step. Planning how you plan to reach them is equally important. Here’s how you can
begin your goal setting endeavor.
1. Determine what you want your business to “be,” “do” and “have.” (You can also do
this for your personal life.)
2. Write down these goals. Something incredible happens when you put thoughts to
paper.
Goals should stretch you about 25 percent, particularly a short-term goal. (The 25
percent rule is less important if the goal is a long-term one.) The reason for the 25
percent “stretching” is that believing, feeling and thinking you can attain the goal is
integral to your ability to attain it. Break your goal down into steps and let each step
represent a 25 percent stretch over the previous one. Eventually, you’ll be at the top of
the stairs.
Also, put a time line on your goals. I like to define my attainment times in quarterly,
yearly, three-year or five-year increments. As you get better in setting goals, you will
improve at seeing the longer term. I have found that seeing the long term is a skill that
can be developed. Don’t forget to envision possibly stumbling blocks. Ask yourself what,
if any, obstacles prevent attaining your goals. Then, determine what actions you would
take to deal with the obstacles.
Remember to look at your goals list frequently. Make adjustments as necessary and
stay on track.
How important is planning? A well known study of Yale University graduating seniors
determined that only five percent of the class had written down clearly defined goals for
the future.
Twenty years later the researchers interviewed the goal setters and non-goal setters.
The researchers discovered the goal setters in the class were happier and more
productive than the 95 percent who didn't set goals. Interestingly, the goal setters also
had a greater net worth than the non-goal setters. But the truly mind-blowing fact was
that the five percent who set goals had a greater net worth than the remaining 95
percent combined.
Over the years, I have been a fairly disciplined goal setter, but at one time I wasn't
good about defining concrete plans to attain those goals. Setting goals simply is the first
step. Planning how you plan to reach them is equally important. Here’s how you can
begin your goal setting endeavor.
1. Determine what you want your business to “be,” “do” and “have.” (You can also do
this for your personal life.)
2. Write down these goals. Something incredible happens when you put thoughts to
paper.
Goals should stretch you about 25 percent, particularly a short-term goal. (The 25
percent rule is less important if the goal is a long-term one.) The reason for the 25
percent “stretching” is that believing, feeling and thinking you can attain the goal is
integral to your ability to attain it. Break your goal down into steps and let each step
represent a 25 percent stretch over the previous one. Eventually, you’ll be at the top of
the stairs.
Also, put a time line on your goals. I like to define my attainment times in quarterly,
yearly, three-year or five-year increments. As you get better in setting goals, you will
improve at seeing the longer term. I have found that seeing the long term is a skill that
can be developed. Don’t forget to envision possibly stumbling blocks. Ask yourself what,
if any, obstacles prevent attaining your goals. Then, determine what actions you would
take to deal with the obstacles.
Remember to look at your goals list frequently. Make adjustments as necessary and
stay on track.
