Set and Schedule Goals

Many are the plans in a man's heart,

but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.

- Proverbs 19:21 (NIV)

You've got plans with multiple goals. You need to organize your goals in such a way that you check them off as you hit each target as you work your way towards your main objective.

Set and schedule your goals. Identify by priority and period. This will help as you organize your goals.

Goals:

1. Short-Term Goals (1-3 years)
2. Intermediate Goals (3-5 years or 3-7 years)
3. Long-Term Goals (5-7 years or 7+ years)

Some consultants will advise goal-setting strategies that span 10 years, starting with an annual plan. That works when you have a cohesive and consistent team with longevity. When you have shifts and changes due to funding and other factors, you will need to look at shorter spans of time. A new team can emerge and disregard the plans set by the previous teams. Usually, when you have high turnover, even with your board of directors and executive leadership, you need to tailor your goal-setting process to annual "adjusted" plans that require planning at least 6 months in advance of implementation.

Make your goals visible. Replace some of those cheesy motivational posters hanging around the office and board room with some visual reminders of what your team should be aiming at on a continual basis. Let people see that you are a goal-oriented organization and operation. Make it known to your team and let it be known to your clients, customers, congregants and vendors and partners.

By setting up and scheduling your goals, you can set yourself up for success.