In order to grow and keep moving forward, we need to know where we’re headed. Nice-sounding but vague goals may seem helpful, but actually serve to hold us back. For instance, we want disciples but haven’t clarified what a disciple looks like. Or we want to develop leaders, but aren’t clear on what what we want these leaders to do.
Try the following exercise to help you sharpen your vision:
Sit down with some paper or a computer and ask yourself two questions: Where are you now? Where do you want to be in 3 to 5 yrs? Being as detailed as possible, paint a picture in your mind contrasting your present situation with your preferred future. How will the future be different than the present?
Next, draw a two-column chart. On the left, describe behaviorally and concretely the way things are now. On the right, describe how you want things to be different in the future. Be as concrete as possible and define any vague terms (e.g. leader, disciple).
Finally, ask yourself the question: What will it take to get there? A clear goal can be incredibly motivating in the same way that a vague goal can make you feel powerless.
- Where are you now?
- Where do you want to be in 3 to 5 years?
- How will the future be different from the present?
- What will it take to get there?