Do Your Goals Evolve?

Why is it that there are so many great ideas, goals, and intentions, but so few of them results in long term improvements, alternatives, and approaches? Do you constantly review and evaluate your personal goals and attitudes, and make the tweaks, modifications, or changes that are needed? How do you develop your goals, and how should a leader develop goals? The most essential consideration regarding goal setting is that one must recognize that a goal is derived from either a personal or organizational vision or mission, and must be something that motivates one to persist and persevere, while remaining open to alternative approaches. These must be consistently and constantly reevaluated and reviewed, because neither an individual or an organization exists in a static world, and therefore they must either evolve and adapt, or risk becoming either irrelevant, or at the very best, less important or meaningful than previously. Only when we evolve in our perspectives are we able to transform even the most important goals to meaningful and effective action.

1. Most of the time, we either make a conscious or subconscious decision between being proactive versus procrastinating. Few individuals recognize that they are procrastinating, and generally resort to reasoning that supports their program of avoiding change. Excuses (and the reality is that procrastination is simply the massive accumulation of a disease I call,"excusitis,") are almost always a debilitating and weakening behavior, while often feeling comfortable and easier at the present time, nearly always deliver longer term weakening and are somewhat destructive. Only individuals or leaders who expand their comfort zone to becoming and maintaining a proactive mindset and approach, are true leaders, because effective leadership necessitates well - reasoned and properly planned risks. The only leader who thinks that he avoids risk is the procrastinator, and that approach inherently brings on the greatest risks of all, which include lack of being prepared, no contingency planning and the inevitable diminishment of relevancy.

2. How do you set your goals? Are these goals truly yours (in other words, things that have motivating and essential meaning and significance to you, and will motivate you to persist and persevere when others will give up), or are you simply taking what you believe to be the easier course of following the apparent presently popular route? Which of Robert Frost's infamous "roads" do you opt to take, when you need to make a decision? When do you decide the course, and do you do so proactively or reactively?

Meaningful goal setting is an essential component in growing as an individual or a leader! However, unless we realize that real goals must constantly be tweaked and evolve proactively, rather than waiting until they have to!

Richard has owned businesses, been a COO, CEO, and Director of Development, as well as a consultant. He has professionally run events, consulted to over a thousand leaders, and conducted personal development seminars, for over 30 years. Rich has written three books and well over a thousand articles. His company, PLAN2LEAD, LLC has an informative website http://plan2lead.net and Plan2lead can also be followed on Facebook http://facebook.com/Plan2lead

http://ezinearticles.com/?Do-Your-Goals-Evolve?&id=8210981

Make Your Life an Exciting Journey of Discovery

When is the right time to begin something new, to break your routine and begin a new adventure? It could be a new business endeavor, moving, or a change in relationship status. It could be a spiritual practice. It might even be taking a vacation for an extended period of time giving you a chance to create a new paradigm for your life.

Think about what goes into getting away. You have to block out a period of time and you have concerns that while you're gone, things will fall apart without you or you'll miss out on that big opportunity.

Changing our patterns for a period of time takes practice. It involves leaving the familiar and exploring new territory, which isn't always comfortable. And there is always that critical voice of judgment that you wish you could silence. "You're not being practical. Wait until the economy picks us. Wait until "this" happens, the "this" being something that might or might not happen in the future. So we hesitate and don't take action. We never reach our full potential. A year goes by and then another and nothing has changed.

There are always going to be voices that get in the way of our moving forward in our lives especially if that is what we focus on. We have to keep filling our tanks on a daily basis with inspiration. Inside of us is another voice that I call the Voice of Inspiration and Praise, VIP, that says, "Yes, you can. You can do it, go for it." The voice that reminds you to have faith that it's all going to work out.

The challenge is to recognize and listen to it. It doesn't necessarily show up in the way we expect and is more prevalent than we realize. It's a voice, an attitude that needs to be cultivated on a daily basis.

As you know I'm a firm believer in synchronicity-those chance encounters that change your life, those remarkable meetings. When I was a young lawyer, one evening a friend told me of a magical swimming hole along a river in Humboldt County. I had just resolved a case that was set for trial and had nothing on my schedule for the next week. I got my car ready, filled up the tank and off I went with my guitar, my dog, and sleeping bag and drove north, arriving at the river just as the sun was setting.

In the morning I awoke at the crack of dawn in search of the swimming hole. I knew that if I hiked upstream I would get there. I continued on my way until a camper offered me some food and coffee. Although I found myself getting hungry and a little bit tired, I said, "No thanks" to the kind invitation, "I want to get to the swimming hole."
After another twenty yards I turned around and said, "That coffee sounds good."

I enjoyed the breakfast. As it turned out, the camper had a guitar and we played music for quite some time. I was full in more ways than one. After thanking the camper, I was ready to be on my way. It was what the camper said in the next few moments that has perhaps made the greatest impact in my life.

"Hey man, the journey you take is probably more important than your destination. Enjoy yourself. Enjoy the journey." I enjoyed the rest of the hike and the swimming hole was fabulous.

Since that meeting, I have taken his advice to heart. It has affected every aspect of my life. There's no better time than now to enjoy your life and experience it as an exciting journey of discovery. Instead of waiting for that ideal relationship, enjoy life exactly as it is. Instead of feeling despair about finding meaning and purpose in your life, enjoy the inquiry. Instead of waiting for that big opportunity, enjoy what you're doing.

There will always be something in the way, which if you focus on it, will affect your ability to enjoy life. You will be tested repeatedly in some manner. Each day you'll have to renew your commitment, but eventually it becomes a way of life. There are eight daily practices and rituals that have supported me on my journey.

1. Take time each day for quiet reflection in the morning including expressing gratitude. It sets the tone for the day.

2. While driving in your car, listen to motivational or conscious music, rather than listening to the news or what's on the various am stations.

3. Make sure that on a daily basis you are in contact with people who inspire and support you. Don't hesitate to take the first step and reach out.

4. Take time to commune in nature.

5. Eat healthy; drink plenty of water and get exercise. This is a choice that you make over and over again that eventually becomes a healthy habit.

6. Don't forget to smile and make sure you make someone else smile.

7. In the evening, take some time to read a personal growth or spiritual book, even if it's just for a few minutes.

8. Reflect upon the most special moment of the day as you are falling asleep. No matter what happened during the day, you have a choice as to how you think about it.

So there you have it. When are you planning your next adventure? You know I love to hear from you. Feel free to share Letters on Life with those in your circle.

Enjoy the journey,

Mark

Are you really living the life you Want? What changes are you avoiding making? Find out how the Positive Side of Change Coaching program can make a difference in your life both personally and professionally.

http://www.inspirepossibility.com

http://ezinearticles.com/?Make-Your-Life-an-Exciting-Journey-of-Discovery&id=8114994

Belief: The Quiet and Unyielding Power Behind Achieving Dreams

Who would you rather work for -- A boss who believed in you or a boss who didn't?

What attitude would you rather have -- Feeling eager for the day to start and believing that your steps bring you closer to [fill in blank]? Or waking up not really interested in what you're doing for the day not believing that what you do really matters to anyone?

How would you like to live your life -- As one who dreams and achieves them, e.g. having a family, losing weight, or new job? Or one who starts to pursue dreams and then doubts, stalls, or turns away when the ups and downs of "life happens"?

No matter your age, title, or economic situation, I've seen people turn their life, careers and relationships around, entirely, by believing! When you believe, not only does your mindset change, the environment around you also changes. Your personal conviction and progress towards your own dreams/goals, can have an enormous impact on other people's attitudes, determination, and fire in their hearts!

Unfortunately I've spoken to quite a few individuals who have quit dreaming about the things they want, because they've tried hard for so long and have given up. "Dreaming is for young people" states a person in his 40's. "My life is comfortable now; no need to upset the apple cart by adding something new." "It's just going to hurt, cost money, or I'll fail." "I may have to give up something I like or am used to, and I don't know if the new thing will be better, so why bother?"

We all have dreams... where are yours? Are they still alive and kickin' or did you bury them someplace? Having belief in your dreams and in your own potential to be successful is SO important for an energized life.

So, what's the secret to belief? Do you just count to 10 and make yourself believe that you're capable?

You have dreams. Imagine it. Imagine your goal. Thriving relationship. Successful product launch. Amazing career promotion. An easy 20 pounds off.

What's the secret to dreaming and believing you can achieve them? You grab on to it AND don't let go. What I mean by don't let go is twofold.

First, when you have a dream that's important to you, envision the emotion behind the BELIEF of getting your dream and don't let go. Notice the adjectives in the goals listed above, e.g. thriving, amazing, easy. Picture your goal and how you will feel as you start to reach them and when you reach them. Be sure to expand on this to include the trickle-down or pay-it-forward effects, i.e., the amazing positive impact on those around you by you progressing towards and reaching your dream. Examples:

An EASY 20 pounds off. Envisioning the emotion means... feeling your laughter as you try on that new dress and twirl around. Catching a glance at yourself in the mirror, with your shirt tucked in, and smiling as you notice your smaller belly. Feeling your wife's arms around you and her compliments about your new physique. Seeing your children follow your eating habits and feeling good about your influence on them. Noticing the added energy you have now without the extra cup of coffee. Realizing that your healthier choices/activities are a 'force for good' as you notice your behavior now being mimicked by friends, too.

Amazing career promotion. Seeing the paycheck increase, gives you a sense of increased security and "Yay, some play money!" Imagining the first day with your new team, and feeling relieved to see they are eager to get started and receptive to you being there. Learning from a couple employees you just met that they've heard many good things about you. Noticing how quickly and effortlessly you get up to speed in the new organization. Feeling happy that your peers are friendly, intelligent and helpful. Contributing in unique and worthwhile ways by saving the company money in your first month. Hearing a few words of appreciation by the staff about how well you preempted an internal conflict situation by setting the tone and expectation early on.

The second part of don't let go, is your unwavering commitment. You must be 100% IN. One hundred percent means it will happen. Partial commitment doesn't work! To reach something amazing requires that you do turn the handle and step through that open door into the unknown. AND that you do close the other doors that are not aligned with your new relationship, launch, promotion, lifestyle, etc.

It takes courage! You must say goodbye to the old reality -- things, people, ideas. Literally at times -- throw things out of your life that are not supportive of the new you and your goal. Protect your commitment by finding new things, people, ideas that are in synch will the new you.

The stronger your belief in your dream AND belief that you'll achieve it, the less room for doubt. The less doubt, the more action you'll take. The more action taken, the stronger your belief in success becomes.

If you find you need to amp up your commitment level, first remind yourself about the meaning of your dream and emotions of the process through achievement. Then ask yourself, "What if my life depended on it?" How would your commitment level change when the stakes are that high?!

Unwavering doesn't mean you're alone in this or imply that only those with very high belief in their abilities will be successful in reaching dreams or making a change in life. The unwavering commitment often includes positive influences and commitments from others to you, and from you to others. We all need friends or a coach who can adjust, cajole, align, re-center us when the time comes.

If you're leading a project or pursuit, or if a team or relationship goal, your 100% commitment is seen and felt by others involved. When others sense your commitment and BELIEF (whether quiet or boisterous) of SUCCESS, they nearly can't help but move with you towards the goal.

Everyone wants to be on the winning team! Everyone wants to work with the winning coach! If the coach doesn't believe in his/her players, or doesn't commit, then don't expect a good season. If the players don't believe in the coach, his/her goal, or feel a commitment to the program or title, then don't expect a good season. Additionally, how much more will the players enjoy the season, the growth, and camaraderie, when they have someone (self &/or coach) they can count on and something they believe in!

I hope this IS the season in your life for dreams to happen!

Theresa J. Swift, MS, CRC, is an executive coach, author, president of Swift Resolve Coaching. ( http://www.swiftresolveexecutivecoaching.com/ ). Swift Resolve Coaching specializes in leadership development and professional coaching for senior leaders. Accelerate your personal leadership. Give her a call at (888)794-3801. You can also sign up for Theresa's free newsletter.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Belief:-The-Quiet-and-Unyielding-Power-Behind-Achieving-Dreams&id=7539472

Why Average People Remain Average By Patric Chan

If you do what you're expected to do, don't expect an outstanding result, my friend.

Study successful people and you'll sure to discover one thing that many of them would have in common... they live by that words of “always do more than what is expected of you”

I don't care. It could be sleeping an hour less everyday to have more time to build your wealth or whatsoever.

Whether you are mowing people's lawn or someone is mowing your lawn, when you are teaching a seminar or being a participant, or when sharing your knowledge or giving advice to your people, always do or give more than what people expect. Then they will flock around you, they will line up to meet you and be happy to support you in whatever thing that you want to do next.

If you're training to be a champion, don't just train like an average player. Train more than you're expected to train.

If you're building a multi-level marketing business, increase the numbers of prospects you would like to meet everyday. If it used to be 10, now you would have at least 12. By just increasing your effort 20%, you'll end up with 60 new prospects a month. Now, that's what I called exponential.

Trying to win a girl's heart? I'm not surprise that you could be “competing” with three other guys for the same girl. And you can only win if you're giving more than all of them if everyone's equal. I'm not saying giving more money or buying stuff' give love, time or whatever that counts to her.

Whenever you are interacting with people or in a relationship, treat the other party extremely well.

Whatever is expected of you in that relationship, be it with your girlfriend or business partner or client, your spouse or your friend, always do or give more than what is expected of you in that relationship for that is the secret of making it a success. It is not that you have to do or give a whole lot more; you have to do just a little bit more than the rest. That's it. The 10mm-difference is what Anthony Robbins calls it for you to become outstanding... in any undertaking.

To do this, it's not difficult. But most people are just too lazy to put in the effort. I'm one of them but I'll always keep reminding myself this' winner takes all. There is no second place, my friend. I would rather strive with the extra effort to get #1 because the pay off is many times greater.

Do you remember who the second best basketball player is? Nope. You can remember Michael Jordan because he's #1. In fact, as far as I know, there's no such place as 'the second best basketball player'.

Who's the second fastest runner in the world? Who knows. I just know the #1.

Others have called this 'more than expected attitude' as 'going for the extra mile'. Notice that they don't say the extra 10 miles.

How come?

Because the average persons don't bother to do more than what is expected of them. I know it's sad but that's the truth.

To most people, "always do more than what is expected of you" are mere words and they don't put substance to it because people are greedy and they just want to do the bare minimum to make money, to make a profit or whatever.

And guess what... successful people are never your average persons.

To be generous and to treat others extremely well, you must come from the perspective of abundance thinking. Then only “always doing more than what is expected of you” will come easy and naturally.

So the next time you are with somebody, or in a business negotiation, or just interacting with another person, ask how can I help you... without even expecting any return.

As the other saying goes-- you have to give, in order to get. In fact, if you want to gather riches you have to be as generous as you can. Touch people's lives profoundly, in ways that they would never forget. Give it forward... help another and that person will help another. Always do more than what is expected of you. Do this and the reward will come to you 10 folds or 100 folds when you are least expecting it.

Do you think you can do more than what you're doing today? Of course you can. The question is... DO YOU WANT OR NOT? You'll have to decide for your own future on that.

------------------------------------------
Patric Chan is an international speaker, author and the creator of Success Trace. Find out how you can use his secrets to massively accelerate your wealth and success,

http://know1self.chando2.hop.clickbank.net