In my last post, I told you that I have a personal coach to help me stay focused on my goals. As a university basketball coach for 11 years, I know the importance of goal setting with elite athletes and teams. Yet, it’s something that not a lot of people do. It’s great to write out your goals. But, the bigger challenge is to take action and follow through. See what you want (visualize) and then tell someone (verbalize) your goals. If you tell someone your goals, especially a coach who holds you accountable, you are more likely to realize those dreams. When you verbalize… it’s out there, Baby!
My athletes had a Goal Buddy. Before the first practice of the week, they had to write out their goals for practices and games that week. They had to be specific and measurable. They then had to exchange sheets with a teammate and verbalize their goals. They also had a “cue word”. This was a word that they could say to themselves at various times during the practice or game that would remind them of their focus, or goal. Their buddy had to memorize this cue word and remind them of it at various times during the practice. This was especially valuable if the player was struggling. The cue word from a teammate reminded them of ONE focus point instead of becoming overwhelmed with hundreds of potential stimuli (sound familiar anyone??). During water breaks, they were required to check in with their goal buddy.
So, you don’t necessarily need to hire a coach. You can ask your spouse, a co-worker, or a friend to be your Goal Buddy. Check in with them once or twice a month.
It’s definitely helping me realize my dreams.
Who is YOUR buddy?
