Our goals should be as multi-dimensional as our lives. Learn about the kaleidoscope approach to goal-setting.
I LOVE goals. I also like intentions, resolutions, aspirations … pretty much anything that has to do with establishing a starting point (where you are) to a result (where you want to be).
Goal junkie: I turned into a goal junkie right around the time when I graduated from college and was a young officer in the Marines. (There’s a strong argument to be made that I was a junkie prior to then.) Anyway, I’d just completed two pretty significant goals and now, goalless, I found myself a bit adrift.
A New Vision
After some reflection, I realized what was missing in my life – a new vision for myself. But not just in the professional space. I was seeking a more multi-dimensional approach to how I wanted to lead my life.
Flash forward to today, where I spend a lot of my time in coaching conversations with leaders at all levels helping them develop visions for themselves and striving to achieve a balanced life. I know better than ever that singular goal pursuits can lead to unfulfillment. Also, too many goals can lead to disappointment because as humans we can do pretty much anything … but not everything.
When I think of goals, I’m inspired by the idea of a kaleidoscope – multiple chambers with balanced pieces that create an inspiring image. I think that’s a great metaphor on how to set goals in our life, particularly in these following four chambers:
- Your life – to include relationships/family, finances, and your health.
- Your career – not just what you do, but how you develop yourself within your profession to find value and meaning in the area where you earn a living
- Your personal joy – what you do for fun … !!!
- Your personal impact – how you serve others, to include volunteering and contributing to your community
Challenge
I challenge you: take the time to write down these four areas in life to set goals and, then, start to see where you could benefit from identifying or developing one or two more goals to feel more balanced. I’d love to hear about any of your discoveries – feel free to email me at angie@angiewitkowski.com to share what you’ve discovered! I’m also a GREAT accountability partner … so, if you’re serious about inviting me into your goals, I’ll seek ways to encourage/support you along the way!
I’m with you, Angie
PS I’ve got some great goals this year:
Life: I’m focused on making healthier meals and eating out less, which also contributes to my “save more” goal.
Career: I’m writing more on LinkedIn – I love this platform. Feel free to connect – let’s stay connected.
Joy: I’m a runner. I’ve got a few key races coming up and I’m striving to break 1:30 in a half marathon. I’m also striving to pick a few races to wear a costume in … !! The latter is probably more for fun.
Impact: I’m heavily involved in my community’s Battle of the Books program – a free reading program for 4th and 5th graders.
