Its often hard to know the difference between goals and objectives – in fact, we often use the two terms interchangeably. But knowing the difference can help us to use both in a constructive way, to get us from where we are to where we want to go.
The major similarity between goals and objectives is that the both involve forward motion
, but accomplish it in very different ways. We can think of goals as being the Big Picture — where we hope that our efforts will ultimately bring us. Objectives are about a specific plan of attack — usually a series of them — each being relatively short-term in nature.
Goals tend to be long on direction, and short on specific tactics. For example, you can set a goal of losing 30 pounds without having a specific plan as to how to do it. You’ve defined the destination you want to arrive at,
and tactics can be developed as you move forward.
We can think of a goal as doing the following:
Defines the destination Changes the direction to move toward the destination Changes the mindset to adjust to and support the new direction Creates the necessity to develop specific tactics
Goals tend to change your mindset by changing your focus. And as your focus changes, it takes your thinking with it. This is why goals are often accompanied by affirmations
, which involve projecting yourself into the desired (but as yet unattained) destination.
People set goals all the time, without ever being very specific. Organiz
