Try Vision Goals to Enhance Your Success

Have you tried setting goals and found it frustrating? Or do you even bother to set goals because it can limit your future options?

That was my experience until I decided to try another type of goal I call vision goals. The name comes from the fact that each one is based on a sentence or part of my vision statement for the desired future of my life. Now I’ve learned that recent scientific research confirms this type of goal can be more effective than more rigid forms. One big reason is that life changes constantly and you cannot control what happens in the world outside your skin.

The standard recommendation for goals is to use SMART goals - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timed. That works fine in industry where the concept originated, especially for manufacturing firms that can control what goes on under their roofs. But not so much for us humans.

Even if you don’t have a personal vision statement, you can build one now by combining several vision goals. For best results, use positive affirmations in the present tense, beginning with “I am…” and use language that enables you to visualize achieving the vision goal. Here are a few examples, but use your own language:

• I am grateful for my many blessings including (name your blessings).

• I am strong and healthy, exercising every day.

• I maintain a positive mindset all day long, monitoring my thoughts.

• I get adequate rest and sleep to keep my mind sharp.

• I am focused and organized to make good use of my time.

Notice these are all things you control. Not “I am a billionaire with a yacht in the Caribbean,” although a realistic success statement is entirely appropriate.

The more you repeat your vision goals, the more likely they will come true. When you say them out loud or in your mind, try to envision that you are experiencing the fulfillment of the vision goal both visually and emotionally. Picture it in your head and feel the positive emotions. Keep them on your phone (I use Notion) or carry them on a note card so you can look at them and repeat them often.

Take a few minutes now to create your own vision goals. Modify them over time. Read and repeat. You’ll find this makes you feel more grounded in a chaotic world, more in control, and more positive emotionally.

If you have a sec, hit reply and tell me about your new vision goals or related questions.

To your ultimate life success,

Buck Lawrimore