This is a very interesting concept and one that we have spent many years deciphering. While we absolutely need to set goals both personally and professionally, what often happens is our mindset is not quite aligned with our goals. What happens then? Despite having a desire to achieve our goals, if our mindset is not inline or we don’t truly believe in the goals we have set for ourselves, our actions will fall short and suddenly, we start to lose sight of our goals -usually within 8 weeks of the New Year.
So much of what we do or want to do is about mindset. Think about waking up early. How much of that is about mindset? I need to exercise or I want to exercise because I know how it benefits me. Mindset. I want to start eating healthier or I know eating healthier will boost my energy and help me feel great. Mindset. I want my business to be successful, but I’m not sure what is holding me back? Or, I want to be successful, so I will start exploring new avenues to see if I can get better traction in my industry. Mindset. The key to changing your mind-set is to look at what’s possible, versus staying in the problem. Being in discovery versus feeling discouraged or stuck.
What does it take to accomplish your goals? What does it take to maintain motivation and dedication? Yes we need to have a goal to work towards, otherwise what’s the point? That said, to maintain enthusiasm and motivation in order to meet or exceed your goals, it’s more than just setting goals…it’s about positive self-talk, self-management, confidence and believing in yourself, that you CAN accomplish the goals you have set and stay focused.
So, what gets in our way? We have been working in this realm for over 25 years and we believe there are three major factors that contribute to people losing focus and/or not achieving their goals:
1. Distractions – Something that we have reflected on a lot over the last few years, is how is it that one individual can remain laser-focused and make BIG things happen, while another individual seems to be pulled in multiple directions and never seems to get as far in business or their career? We believe that it comes down to allowing distractions to take over. Distractions come in many forms in business; taking on additional projects, even when you have lots to keep you busy. This can be due to boredom, a need for revenue or trying to be all things to everyone. However it usually results in spreading oneself too thin and exhaustion. Same goes for trying to “do it all” and wearing too many hats –something has got to give. So, look for ways to stay focused, such as outsourcing the things that you may not necessarily enjoy or be good at like; bookkeeping, marketing, responding to emails and phone calls. These things can either be accomplished by a Virtual Assistant or a professional who can do it in half the time and will get you results!
2. No clear vision – have you ever built a house? Or renovated your home? Building a business is kind of like that. It’s important to understand and develop your business with products, services and revenue streams that people want and will buy, to ensure your business is viable and sustainable. You’re essentially building a “Blueprint” for your business, with everything from your foundation, to the rooftop explored and nailed. You want to ensure that your foundation consists of your company values, what you believe in (i.e.: trust, integrity, commitment, service, honesty, etc.). You want to build the cornerstones of your business, which is essentially your business model, what you offer, your expertise, how you deliver and how you make money. Your vision must be clear. It must have a purpose and a plan attached, otherwise, you will continue to spin and get caught in the weeds again and again. Find a support system, a mastermind or think tank group, or if possible a business coach or strategist to help outline your vision and develop a plan to get your business either off the ground or take it to the next level. Most businesses fail because they do not have a clear vision and a plan. There are plenty of customers out there for everyone –you just need to understand how to find them, bring them in, serve them and keep them satisfied. Business is meant to be a collaboration, no going it alone –it’s difficult to do anything alone. Find your tribe and get rockin’ your biz! Additionally, we usually recommend a mind-mapping session to help bring out your brilliant ideas and move all of that idea-clutter to paper, so that you can begin sorting and prioritizing your ideas into what makes sense for your business and what you can leave for a later date. Again, allowing you to focus and develop a clear vision.
3. Lack of passion – quite honestly, if you’re not passionate about your business, it’s important to step back and rethink starting or continuing with your business. People read you and your energy and if your passion has gone or isn’t there, customers and/or people in your network will know it. If your passion has simply dimmed due to circumstances, do some soul-searching and figure out where it went, what you really want and either reignite that passion, or step away. The last thing you want is to spend time, money and energy on something you don’t love. If you find you are still passionate, but you’ve simply been bogged down by challenges, or going off into the weeds, join a group or mastermind, or hire a business coach to help figure out how to get back to doing more of what you love –it’s worth it, if you still love what you do. Sometimes we just get lost and think there’s no way out or we get stuck. There’s help out there… go get it and get fired up again –either about this or another business idea!!
What is the common denominator in all of the above? Mind-set. How we feel is what generates the energy or diminishes the energy for doing things. Our mind is like a machine, if it’s well maintained and the operator uses it properly, it will work very well. We must nurture our mind-set particularly as entrepreneurs, so we don’t get stuck. Practice positive self-talk, brainstorm with people you trust to give you objective, helpful feedback and set clear goals around what you want. It’s important to develop a clear vision and follow your passion in order to have a mind-set that works for you, not against you.
So, on that note, in terms of moving forward in your business, we decided to introduce the idea of mind-setting, rather than the old-school goal-setting method when it comes to business. This is a concept you, as an entrepreneur will definitely understand. Think about those days when you are not sure how you will pay the bills at the end of the month? Then suddenly, you have a ‘brainwave’ and everything changes. You have a brilliant idea! Keeping a positive mind-set is so important, as it is the gateway to innovation, motivation, creativity and inspiration! What if we applied these principals to our short-term and long-term goals? Imagine the possibilities!
Are you ready to re-think goal-setting and shift to mind-setting? The difference is our experiences, our beliefs and values exist in our mind. When we believe we can achieve something, we go ahead and we do it! Whereas, regardless of what your goals look like on paper, if you don’t believe them, it’s highly unlikely you will achieve them. The beauty of the mind is, we can change it. We can map-out our goals in our mind, then using a wonderful tool called the mind-map, you can brainstorm, drill down on those ideas and put an action plan behind them.
Are you curious about what a mind-map is? Give us a call and we’ll show you! It’ll blow your mind how fast mind-mapping can take you to the next level in your business. Mind-maps are your radiant thinking –coming to you in vibrant colour. Ready to see what is possible? Your dreams can become your reality!
Heather Wilson, ATC
Author & Certified Coach
