(Distinctions are subtleties of language that, when gotten, cause a shift in a belief, behavior, value or attitude.)
To have and accomplish goals makes life better. Why? Because when you decide what you want and go for it and achieve it, you just won.(The goals described here are ones you choose, not “shoulds” imposed by others.)
When determining goals we usually pick ones which we believe can be achieved. Believability is an important attribute of most goals. Which means, most of our goals are incremental steps from where we are now. And that works.
But sometimes you don’t want to take this “safe” approach. Sometimes you want to set a goal which will not allow you get it by simply doing a little more of what you’re already doing. Sometimes you want to pick a goal which, in order to achieve it, you will have to do something radically different. This is a breakthrough goal.
How do you know when to set a breakthrough goal rather than an incremental one? When your head and your gut tell you that you’ve gotten as far as you’re going to get using your current processes. And when you realize you want to shake up your world and go for something different and radical and big!
Coaching Point: What research would serve you well as you prepare for a breakthrough? With whom could you talk?
Copyright 2007 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.