A Goal Without a Date is a Wish
Chase your dreams or watch it fly away from you
We are all ambitious. Although our dreams may vary, the end product remains the same — achieving a goal, becoming successful.
But only having a desire to have something or be someone is not enough. We must set a time frame for it. It’s only when we fix a deadline, our thinking process, our intention on how to achieve it becomes clear and concise.
Getting me?
A goal without a date is a wish. Let’s say, “I want to be a football player”. That is not enough. I’m already 24. By 35 most professional football players retire. So, I have to be a player by 34 to get at least a couple of years to play football.
You can replace the above example with anything you want. The point remains the same.
Below are a few things to remember.
Know your “Why”
Just wanting to be a football player without an explanation is of no help. Are you driven? Do you feel the butterflies in your stomach when thinking about being a football player? Do you feel the excitement?
Understanding your goals inside-out is the first step. Why do you want it so badly? How do you plan to achieve it? What are the struggles you may have to face? Do you need to have networks? If yes, who should you connect to?
Questions, questions, and more questions. Asking the right questions and then finding the answers should be your aim.
Set a deadline
“I want to publish my first novel in 3 years from now.” This is how you should frame your thoughts every time you think about your ambitions — a goal and a deadline. Some of you may say deadlines will make us demoralized if we fail to achieve it in the set time frame.
Well, it may be true. But then, the time frame selected shouldn’t be random. You should be strategic about it. If I say “I want to publish a novel within the next month”, the chances of disappointments are much higher.
That brings me to my third point,
Be strategic
I know how I’ll be writing the novel. I am familiar with the plot. I’m also aware that I need to build a dedicated readership first. An email list is important too. All of that will take time. Hence I’ve given myself three years. I’m already executing the blueprint step by step.
In the meantime, I’ve to write more, practice my craft, hone my skills, and have a presence as a writer. I’m doing all of that.
You have to be strategic for your goals too. Sit down and internalize the process. Write down the steps that can lead you to small successes. Those small wins will eventually add up to your ultimate victory.
All I can say is be bold on your dreams. Execute them with a set deadline in mind. I’m sure you’ll get there. Even if you don’t, you will be closer than you could imagine in the first place.
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