Making Wishes Come True

Our business and personal wishes can be a lot like the Amazon wish list; we have an idea of something we desire and we add it to our “wish list”. Until we take action, though, it sits on our wish list and we are no closer to having our desire met. The three obstacles that keep books in my Amazon account are also at work here: focus, a clear understanding of our objective, and action.

Wishes are an idea of something desired, realistic or not. They are not always within our control, as in wishing for a sunny day. In contrast, goals are measurable and lead to an objective; they are the desired result of our effort. We need both wishes and goals but without goals, our wishes often sit idle (just like my Amazon wish list) and we end up frustrated. And without wishes or dreams, our goals may not always bring us to our true desire.

If you’re sick and tired of not seeing your wishes come true, follow these simple steps:

1. Get clear about your objectives. What is it that you truly want? It’s one thing to wish for more income, but go deeper; what will a higher income do for you? How will your life be different? More income could satisfy a deeper desire for more independence or more free time to travel. Understanding your bigger “why” allows you to shortcut to that outcome by sidestepping time-consuming distractions.

2. Create an action plan with SMART steps (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-based). An action plan keeps you focused, it reminds you where to apply your attention. It’s easy to get distracted when we’re working on something big. Excitement about finally reaching our goal, as well as fears, can waylay the best of us and get us off track. Say your goal out loud. Share it with friends, family and colleagues to keep on track, and to create some accountability and a built-in cheering section.

There are two types of goals – outcome-based goals and action-based goals. Outcome based can be the final outcome you desire, as well as the milestones that let you know you are on the right track. A vacation to Paris in October, 2013 is an outcome based goal, as is being able to book your flight by April, 2013. An action-based goal is a behavior or action to which you are committing; saving $200 per month in a separate travel savings account is an action-based goal that has all the attributes of a SMART goal.

3. Act. A willingness to take action is inherent in the definition of a goal. When a client feels stuck or unsure, my favorite question is “what will most move me forward today?” There is always some action you can take to move you further along and this question quickly and easily points it out.

If your wish list includes more prosperity in your business or personal life, download my free Prosperity Worksheet by registering for my newsletter.

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Helen Dutton provides professional business coaching for small business owners who want to achieve excellence with ease. Make more money, more easily, with Helen Dutton, Business Coach. Find her, and the Prosperity Worksheet, at www.avisionofyourown.com.