I started using a new goal setting ritual a few months ago and it rocks, pun intended. Like myself, many of you have probably tried different ways to ensure that you consistently tackle high priority tasks, in order to reach your loftiest goals. This simple and fun method has turbocharged my ability to get "big goals" done faster, and ended the habit of letting them stagnate on a list or in a day planner. It has also given a huge boost to my overall personal development efforts. Another great thing is that it will complement any task or goal management system you have in place.
A simple litmus test for uncovering your high priority tasks is that you avoid them at all costs. Instead of taking them on, you throw yourself at just about anything else of lesser importance - especially email. A puzzling irony since the most important tasks give you the greatest sense of accomplishment and propel you toward your "serious" goals and dreams - what Stephen Covey calls the "Big Rocks." If you are using a system and it works, that's great. However, stay tuned because you can also benefit from what I'm about to show you.
So, without further ado, here's the "Rock Your Goals" tactic. First, you need to gather three (or more) palm-sized rocks. Some people have chosen to use a crystal or other object. The only guidelines are that the objects have more than one dimension and you enjoy looking at them. Second, pick three of your most intimidating tasks and write them down (I just grab a scrap of paper from my trash bin). Lastly, as you may have guessed, you fasten each big task to a rock using a rubber band. If possible, choose rocks that have at least one flat side so that they can stand upright, allowing the tasks to be suspended higher in the air. The biggest rock should have the most important task and be positioned closest to you on your desk. Now your high priority tasks will be staring at you all day (in a good way).
"Rock Your Goals" works because it engages the creative and spatial areas of your "right brain," as opposed to the usual "left brain" methods like writing an "A" or "B" next to a task. As with any plan to achieve your goals, don't let anything distract you from taking action. After I complete a task, I take the piece of paper off the rock and enjoy its beauty, as well as the satisfaction of knowing my "Big Rocks" for the day are done. I'm usually so pumped after completing my big tasks that I actually look forward to taking on the more difficult ones that remain. However, I choose to let the rest of my to-do list unfold without any formal structure. It is of course still important to write your goals down and revisit them regularly. You do have to have a target to aim for after all. Don't underestimate the power of this simple tactic. It is visual, fun and greatly diminishes goal setting fatigue.
Now, if you don't work from home, are mostly mobile, or work in an office, you can modify the process so it becomes a little more stealth. Simply use the "Rock Your Goals" tactic at home and grab the three sheets of paper off the rocks before you leave. You can also write the three tasks down on one piece of paper. The key for people on the go is to attach the tasks to an object or picture that isn't one dimensional and evokes a strong, positive emotional feeling. This will help you remember to check your pockets or wherever you keep your tasks. If you haven't accomplished the "Big Rocks" by the end of the day, you will have to put them back on the rocks when you get home. Ouch.
"Rock Your Goals" is a fun, free and easy tactic that will make you more accountable to yourself and help you achieve your goals and dreams sooner. Anything is possible with some creativity and discipline. Just look at what David was able to do to Goliath with his rock.
By David Thimme (Reprinted from EzineArticles)
Update: This technique has made prioritizing my goals a no-brainer and I continue to use it. If "Rock Your Goals" seems a little uncomfortable at first, try placing only one rock in your inbox, or using it as a paperweight. Other people will barely notice it, but you will. We are all subject to the effects of left-brain dominance and a culture that reflects that outlook. This is a great method to wake up your creative right-brain and achieve your big goals in life. If you have any unorthodox tools that work for you, please share them. And let me know what you think about "Rock Your Goals."
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