In the right hands, goals are a weapon.
I think we all understand their offensive capacity, but today I want to talk about how to turn your goals into a defensive weapon as well.
First, let’s remember what properly defined goals can do for you. And I’m not talking about wishy-washy, hand-wavy goals like “become financially free.”
I’m talking about SMART goals – Specific, Measurable, Action-orientated, Realistic and Time-bound goals – something like “I’m going to replace my income through property investing in the next 36 months.”
First, goals like this give you focus and clarity. The process itself forces you to really hone in on what you want, and from that, you get a very clear idea of the actions you need to follow.
Second, SMART goals give your days and weeks meaning and purpose. They anchor you in action, and stop you faffing about and procrastinating. This then impacts every area of your life as you become more energised and purpose-driven.
Finally, SMART goals also create accountability. They create a metric you can measure your success against, and because you can share your goals with others, you can build a supportive community around you who will hold you to account.
I’m only scratching the surface here. I could go on and on. But you get the idea. Success is a battle, every step of the way. SMART goals are the most powerful weapon you can pack in your kit.
(You know, unless you have access to a rocket launcher. In that case, go with a rocket launcher.)
But anyway, what I am talking about with the defensive weaponisation of goals?
What I’m saying there is that success is a battle and every battle is a game of offence and defence.
And you need to defend yourself against all those forces that want to pull you from your path – that want to prevent you from reaching your full potential.
I’m talking about shame and the fear of judgement. I’m talking about envy and insecurity. I’m talking about wishful thinking and feelings of entitlement.
If left unchecked, these forces can take over your life – they grab the steering wheel and drive your actions in the world.
Like, you don’t want to be judged so you take a safe and boring job. You want to be loved so you waste all your money on bling and fancy cars. You don’t think your life should be hard so you’re waiting for everything to be handed to you on a plate.
And before you know it, your time and energy is stolen from your true calling.
But goals can defend you from this. They create a defensive ring around your energy and resources.
Like, I don’t have time for this 9 to 5 BS, I’m on a mission. I’m working to a deadline.
Or, I’m not going to waste money on bling, I’ve got six months to pull together my next deposit.
Or, I’m afraid of talking to people, but I really need to work on that if I’m going to make these 4 deals over the next 12 months.
Do you see what I mean?
Goals become the metric we use to allocate our time, energy and resources.
And if we have strong goals, then we are strong in the allocation of our energy and resources. We defend ourselves from time-wasting and energy-sucking endeavours.
Goals are a defensive weapon. That’s what you need to know.
Your job now is to learn how to use them.
DB