Wednesday, 24 August 2011

This or something better...

What is ‘it’ we are really seeking when we set ourselves a goal or intention?

I was revisiting some of my business goals during the week and saw there were some areas I was doing really well in and others where I had not yet achieved my intended target. For example, I had set myself the goal of securing a particular number of one-on-one clients by August 2011 and realised, that with one week left to go in this month, I have not yet met my specific target.
I was exploring ways in which I could better market my individual coaching services, when I asked myself the following: What is ‘it’ I am really seeking by securing my intended goal of “X number of clients by August 2011”.

What is the ‘outcome’ (i.e. the ‘effect’) I desire – as opposed to the ‘output’ (i.e. the details)? I spent 5 minutes re-visiting my initial motivation for developing my own coaching business which was:
“To work in a field I am passionate about. To support myself and others to be the best they can be. For my ‘job’ to be personally, creatively and financially rewarding. To have a career that is flexible in regards to hours and location, and enables me to spend quality time as a mother to my daughter and wife to my husband, whilst also honouring my own life journey and development".
I then thought about the feelings I was really seeking when developing the concept for my business as well as my specific goal of x number of clients. They included:

  • Flexibility, Satisfaction, Creativity, Mothering, Nurturing (of self and others), Freedom (financial), Freedom (daily schedule), Vitality, Power, Joy, Peace, Accomplishment, Self-honour, Authenticity, Self-consciousness, Self-development, Inspiration, Acceptance, Faith
Having written the list, I realised that I am actually experiencing and enjoying all of these feelings right now! I repeat, although I have not yet met my specific goal, I am already experiencing the feelings I was seeking when I set the goal!

My own coach (yes… – I have my own amazing coach – coaches are great!!) has recently reminded me of the importance of finishing affirmations or goals with the statement:

 “…this or something better.”

Whether you use these particular words, or a phrase of your own, by following our stated intention with such a phrase, we acknowledge our desires and needs whilst also releasing control over how those needs are best met. This aligns us both mentally and energetically with our desired future, encourages us to remain open and unattached to the specific output, and also gently reminds us that we cannot always know what is the best or ‘right’ thing to take place/unfold.

By maintaining my broader objective of doing work I love that is personally and creatively rewarding, rather than the particular number of clients I had intended to be coaching, I have realised that I am already living my dream! Not only this, but it has also reminded me that I do not necessarily know the best way for me to reach and support my intended clients, and am currently exploring some group coaching opportunities which are also aligned with my coaching values as well as personal needs. I have reminded myself that 'everything is ok' - and I genuinely feel, and trust that I and my business are exactly where I/it needs to be right now.

So – what about you? Think about some of your ‘goals’ or ‘hopes’ at this point in time – what is the feeling you are seeking by attaining your goal? I.e. What is it you are really seeking?
- Is it really ‘that’ job? Or is it a feeling of accomplishment, security, and/or acknowledgement of your skills?
- Is it actually buying ‘that’ couch? Or is it a feeling of comfort and warmth in your home?
- Is it actually owning ‘that’ car? Or is it a feeling of abundance and status?
- Is it actually reaching 'that' weight? Or is it a feeling of health and vitality?
- Is it actually attaining 'that' salary? Or is it a feeling of financial security and independence?
You may be surprised to discover that you are already experiencing that which you are seeking – and if not, ask yourself what it is you could do right now that will enable you to feel that way today – whilst also progressing you towards your long-term goal?
I encourage you to take the time to explore and enjoy this concept – I would love to hear how you go with it so please let me know at info@greersakul.com

Have a great week!!!

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