The second of the Two Can – Do’s is People Do Create Good Lives! This implies planning and working. Creation is an active process that requires knowledge of where we are headed. Again, referring to The Seven Habits of Highly Successful People, Covey states “Start with a clear understanding of your destination. It means to know where you’re going so that you better understand where you are now and so that the steps you take are always in the right direction” (p. 98).
Can you imagine getting up one morning and taking off on a trip without some sort of plan, some sort of itinerary? I know there might be adventure in the unknown; however, creating and following a Life Plan requires more than just chance. Beginning with the end in mind ensures that we focus our choices in purposeful ways. Once you have established the Good Life you desire, the creation process begins in earnest. And just where do we start our work you ask? Well at the end of course! Sounds a little funny but beginning at the end and working backward actually solidifies our starting points.
Following is a formula for Beginning with the End in Mind:
- Intended Outcome or Target – Take one aspect of your Dream Statement and focus on your intentions for that particular aspect. Write down what you want to accomplish in this aspect. Be as specific as possible. This is your “end result.” Your “beginning with the end in mind” target.
- Foundation – Write down all components that must be in place in order for your end result to become a reality.
- Tasks – Write down all the tasks you must accomplish in order to ensure that the required components are in place. This becomes the focus on your Foundation.
- Starting Point – Write down the task or tasks you will undertake first as you work to attain your intended outcome. This step will help you determine your Starting Point.
In whatever format you are recording your thoughts and plans, follow the formula with only one part of your Dream Statement. Using this formula will enable you to “flesh out” all aspects of your Life Plan and make adjustments as necessary along the way.
If you would like some feedback or have questions, please feel free to email me at [email protected]
Peace!
Mark E. Hundley
