Do you have a plan this year?

Posted on January 23, 2012 by David Lee, One of Thousands of Business Coaches on Noomii.

Step 1 – Values:
The first thing we have to do is be truthful with ourselves and wake up to reality. To do that we have to “uncover the truth,” we have to take responsibility for our lives, our attitudes, our values, and what we do in life with our time. You can arrive at your vision by asking yourself – what are your values? What is most important to you? Think of a time in your life when you felt you were really being yourself – what were the characteristics of that situation? Think of what makes you angry and conversely ask what is therefore important to you? Try to break down large cluster values by asking what they ultimately bring you. Now name 3 core values for you e.g. honesty, independence, love, etc.

Step 2 – VISION:
The second thing we have to do is plan. Without a plan we lose direction, we lose commitment. When you have a detailed plan to accomplish, you will take initiative and gain the diligence to accomplish. How do you see your ideal world? When all challenges have been met, what are you doing? How are you living? Who is with you and how do you relate to them? What work are you enjoying? What makes it fulfilling? What else are you doing that is fulfilling for you? What is bringing you joy? What else is happening around you and in your world? What are the qualities of your larger environment – at work and in the world? Describe it here:

Step 3 – Get a Coach:
The third thing we must do is seek outside help. It is impossible to be diligent without effective partnering. Most of us are only skillfully knowledgeable in a few things. The truly diligent seek counsel from the very beginning, before they encounter any trouble. As a coach, we help to shine a light down the path ahead, to form a clearer view of the destination and also the potential obstacles and detours. We assist in staying focused on the overall vision as well as on those sometimes agonizing small details. Soon the person begins to form an initial plan. The first few steps become clear, and the individual can begin to move forward purposefully. The satisfaction of the first small accomplishment can lead to the enthusiasm needed to continue the journey ahead. There is an unmistakable shift, a gleam of excitement in the eye of someone who discovers that their dream is possible. That discovery often begins when you create an initial plan. A plan gives a sense of reality to a dream.

Step 4 – Elements of the Vision:
For each of the major areas of your vision, fill in the following:

1. GOALS: what do you want to happen in this area? Be as SMART as you can – specific, measurable, actionable, realistic and time-bound

2. REALITY CHECK: What is actually happening? What have I achieved? What hasn’t worked? What remains to be done to get to my goals? What challenges are there? What resources are around to support my efforts?

3. OPTIONS: Given the reality, what are my options for moving towards my goal? What different paths and actions will lead me closer? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each of them?

4. WAY FORWARD: Having reviewed my options, which of them shall I follow through with? What actions do I commit to? When will I carry them out? Where? How? What accountability mechanism will I use e.g. Using a journal or weekly planner, or checking in with my partner or work colleague, or through coaching?

Step 5 – Wisdom & Understanding:
The fourth critical thing is to seek wisdom and build upon it. The Word of God says if we receive His Word and incline our ears to wisdom and search for her as for hidden treasures, if we apply our heart to understanding His commands and cry out for discernment. Then and only then will we understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom and from His mouth comes knowledge and understanding.

I hope this helps, please call for a consultation today!

David Lee – Coach
Lee Development