When individuals go through challenging times, it can be difficult for them to look beyond their current situation. They may make decisions that provide immediate relief but are not well thought out, leading to regretful outcomes in their future.
Many people find themselves struggling, moving from one idea to the next without considering the long-term consequences. Some even lose the ability to dream and become hopeless, resigning themselves to a life of mere survival instead of thriving.
A few years ago, Harvard University conducted a study on their graduates with a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) degree. They asked the graduates if they had clear, written goals for their future. Keep in mind that these were top business students, known for their intelligence and critical thinking. The study revealed that only 3% had clear, written goals, 13% had goals but had not written them down, and a staggering 84% did not have any goals at all.
Despite receiving the same education and being equally brilliant, the study found a significant difference in outcomes for these three groups. Ten years later, when the researchers followed up with the same students, they discovered that the 3% with clear, written goals earned over ten times as much as the other 97%. Additionally, the 13% who had goals, but not in writing, earned twice as much as the 84% without any goals.
This study highlighted the power of goal setting and the importance of writing down goals and creating action plans. Assisting others in setting goals can be a powerful tool for breakthroughs as we minister to those around us. As we enter the new year, many make resolutions that they struggle to keep. However, when we journey alongside individuals facing difficult situations, goal setting becomes even more crucial. It can be the catalyst for breakthrough that restores hope and helps individuals move towards their God-given purposes.
We offer a special training component for ministries called “Coaching for Abundant Living.” This training empowers your team to assist individuals in moving forward towards their God-given purposes. One of the frameworks we utilize is the Growth Plan, a tool to help individuals set goals. You can download the Growth Plan template HERE.
Let’s break down this Growth Plan framework:
- Goals: Write down the goal you wish to accomplish.
- Reason: Understand why you want to achieve this goal. Knowing your reasons will keep you motivated and remind you of its importance.
- Action Steps: Clearly outline the necessary steps towards your goal. Breaking it down into manageable tasks is essential. Identify what needs to be added or removed from your life and set a timeframe for each step. Use the + or – sign according to what things you need to add or remove and give yourself a timeframe to accomplish each step.
- Obstacles and Responses: Anticipate potential obstacles that may hinder your progress and develop strategies to overcome them.
As you assist those you minister to in setting hope-filled goals, it is helpful to regularly check in with them to see how they are progressing with their action steps. If they veer off track, remind them of the reasons they set their goals in the first place. Sometimes, remembering the “why” can be a powerful motivator to keep going. Help them identify obstacles and make necessary adjustments to keep moving forward.
F. Scott Fitzgerald once said, “For what it’s worth, it’s never too late to be whoever you want to be. I hope you live a life you’re proud of. If you’re not, I hope you have the strength to start over.”
If you are interested in bringing our “Coaching for Abundant Living” training to your team, please contact us, and we will schedule a time that works best for you.
