The Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks will celebrate their well-earned victory for a while. Every time they, or their fans, reflect or discuss the achievement of their 
super goal, they will be living in the past. I’m not saying it’s bad to enjoy our victories, I am saying that when we think about goals we have achieved we are, by definition, reliving the past.
This seemingly simple observation brings up at least two critical, yet practical questions:
I. How much time do I, or should I, spend thinking about goals I have achieved?
If we do not reflect on our past successes (and failures), we probably won’t learn much from them. However, if we spend too much time thinking about the past, we lose the gift of the present. That’s because there is no time except the present. Therefore, we probably should spend most of our time here, now. This leads us to our second question…
II. Is the process of goal achieving just as important as the goal itself?
Of course, goals are critical to success. I’ve been a goal setter for 30 years. I’ve achieved some and missed some. What I’ve come to realize is that goal achieving is just as important, perhaps more so, then goal achievement. Who we become as we strive to achieve is what life is all about. In other words, how we choose to experience the journey is the essence of life. The achievement of a goal is the mountaintop. The journey is how you choose to climb.
One of the fathers of motivation, Earl Nightingale, defined success as “the progressive realization of worthy goals.” I couldn’t agree more. A worthy goal invites us to take a meaningful journey (achieving) with a glorious view from the top (achievement).
So, congratulations to the Seattle Seahawks and their fans. I encourage them and you to set your sights high, enjoy the journey, and the view from the top.
Let me know what you think and how you’re doing. I’d love to hear from you. Let’s keep the conversation going by adding your comments below.
See you on the mountain,
Dave
Dave Jensen helps leaders manage ambiguity, gain buy-in to any change, improve decision-making, and achieve difficult goals in today’s complex, competitive, and conflicting environment. For a FREE Chapter or to purchase his newly released groundbreaking book that helps executives and managers develop business-boosting skills, The Executive’s Paradox – How to Stretch When You’re Pulled by Opposing Demands, visit http://davejensenonleadership.com/
