I love setting goals and encourage everyone I meet to do the same. Most every notable accomplishment I’ve experienced I can track back to having a clear goal. However, I know that some of you just resist the process, believing that setting goals takes the spontaneity out of life. That you will never again be allowed to impulsively go to the movies, take a walk or enjoy the sunset. Actually, I expect the opposite results. I expect you to have more time to do those things and more. And that has caused me to rethink my model for setting goals.
I have found that often the most fulfilled and “successful” people are the most spontaneous, have the most time for leisurely enjoyed lunches, and are not irritated at unexpected “interruptions.” I have also experienced that my most creative thinking often comes when I am on my morning walk, driving along a detour, tinkering with my cool John Deere tractor or playing Quiddler with Joanne. Unbroken focus on the goals may lead a person to measurable “success” but may be a hindrance to finding real fulfillment. In fact, blind focus will likely cause us to miss God’s subtle and quiet voice in the rainbow or the unexpected chance encounter.
Here’s my new recommendation: Create a clear focus and plan for 85% of your time. Keep the 15% open for new hobbies, meditation, reading, or just interruptions. Instead of seeing these as hindrances, they may very well be the fertilizer for your ultimate success.
I remember when Joanne and I went to Chicago... No plans, no phones, no computers, no necessary shopping; just free time walking the streets, looking at the sights and eating at our favorite restaurants. But now that I think about it, I had this clearly on my goals for 2014 and made the arrangements months in advance. Sounds like a worthy goal to me. It appears that unless I have the 85% in place, the 15% will never occur. Without clear goals, everything looks like a crisis and 100% of your time will be consumed.
What “interruption” led to a big success for you this year?
