There are many paradoxes we can come to understand and participate in if we are to be happy while we chase our goals.
A paradox is something that is true and not true at the same time.
Being crystal clear about what we are trying to bring about in the world is essential. What exactly is your goal? “Keep your eyes on the prize”.
The paradox is that we should not obsess over the goal to the point that we are unhappy that we have not accomplished it yet, or by the fact that is is taking us 2X, 3X or longer to accomplish it than we thought (common because we commonly underestimate the time it will take to achieve things).
Once we set a goal, then we should ask, “What would CAUSE this dream to come true?” What do I (we) have to do to get this kind of result? Who do I (we) have to be in the world? What do we have to learn? What do we have to execute on each day? WHO do I need on my team? And a host of other questions about what and who and why and where.
These answers are subject to frequent revision as your expectations collide with reality – that’s called learning.
The answers to “What do I/we have to do to achieve this goal” are called CAUSES or INPUTS.
Now we let go of the outcome while still keeping it before us. That’s the paradox.
Instead of obsessing on the goal, we obsess on the inputs. We obsess on putting the things in place and executing on the inputs everyday.
Feel progress and be happy about making progress on the inputs.
Be the cause of what you want.
If you and your organization can do that, the realization of the effect – the GOAL, will come.
So true. Expectations are the dilution of reality. Many times, we create an image in our head of what is supposed to be and without it, we lose sight of what is and what can be. The goal should be a compass to keep us moving in a positive direction.
I always appreciate how you take the time in the morning to share this wisdom!
Great advice. Process yields results. Design and execute a brilliant process and the outcome will most likely be the success one is seeking.
Progress is powerful. Celebrate it with your team. Then the goals will be reached and exceeded.
So this is super insightful, you could wonder at your whole life, never having won any freedom, or any time with your family.
But being crystal clear with your goals is a must.
I love Think Daily for Businesspeople and this one was a particularly good one! Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge and wisdom!