Divide by 4

Wed, 2012-01-04 11:17 -- tomjonez

Last week I proposed that we each set one goal for 2012.

Something new, something enticing, something audacious.

Setting multiple goals is way too lofty; it’s hard to track multiple bogeys -

and usually the goal-setting-game is lost due to lack of focus on one core

objective.  So we set out to identify one goal for 2012.

Now it’s time to divide by four.

Twenty or so years ago I read an article in INC Magazine that discussed a

published study proving that goals are ineffective when they are greater than

90 days in duration.  I guess we are all too short-sighted to pursue a

longer-term objective.  That’s OK.

Anyone can divide by 4.

It’s simple.  Since 90 days is approximately equal to 3 months, if we divide

our one goal for the 12 months by 4, we can break it down into four sub-goals

of 3 months – or 90 days - each.

Voila !

We now have tangible and effective quarterly sub-goals that result in

accomplishing one thing in 2012.

And I’m in.  My goal is set.  And I divided it by 4.  And I started January

1st.  And nope; leaving you hanging for now.

Well, OK.  Here it is: I’m going to walk or jog 500 miles this year.

Divide by 4: That’s 125 miles per quarter.

5.48 miles so far, as of today (and on track).

How about you?  What’s your goal?  What does it look like when you divide it by

four?  It’s not too late to start (never is).

Let me know and we’ll compare notes.