Plan to Fail

With every new year, it always gives a me chance to reflect on the one that just passed.  What happened, what was accomplished, how well things went.  I have a lot to be thankful for in 2012!   There were a lot of positive changes that took place in my life – that all happened due to my purposeful – and intentional – planning.

I’m talking about goal setting.

In 2012, I had several specific goals that I wanted to reach.  One was to read the entire new testament of the Bible (I got close!), another was to listen to at least 200 podcasts or audio books that are inspirational or educational (Got this one no problem!), and yet another was to find a job that was doing something I enjoyed but was within a day’s drive of my family (I did it!).

I wrote them down at the beginning of the year, and periodically reviewed them throughout the year.

You see, if you write down your goals, it helps to put them into a place in your mind that subconsciously thinks about them.  Additionally, when you periodically review them, it helps to solidify them in your mind, kind of like adding water to cement.

You might say to your yourself, “Well I know what I want to do so I don’t have to write it down.” This is a common thought.  Research has shown that 95% of people do it this way now – and it also shows that this type of goal setting rarely works.

“If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.”

You have to write down your goals, designate specific actions that will get you to reach your goals, and periodically track and review them.

I have simplified this only to let you know that it is not as hard as you may think it is.  With only 5% of people ever writing down their goals, the results are amazing for the 5% that do write down their goals, as they end up achieving the most things that they desire in life.

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” Prov 16:3 (NIV84)

A real Christian business man uses the gifts that God has given him to ensure that he and his family are in the best position to succeed, and to enjoy life to the fullest. This means setting goals for yourself, together with your spouse, and for your family.

What will your goals for 2013?  Will you be in 5% or the 95% this year?