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Setting big goals can actually do more harm than good

Setting big goals BHAG

This is a sensitive topic but I felt strongly about this.

Most people teach about setting big goals or stretch goals. Some even say that if it ain’t big enough, it’s not worth doing.

I find it disturbing.

Most of the time, teams or individuals can’t achieve big goals. Their spirits get crushed and they always find themselves lacking.

Why sabotage yourself? If setting big goals don’t work, why torment others by insisting on it?

You can’t create winners but making everyone feel like they are losers.

 

My proposition: Set goals you can hit

Once you do it, celebrate the win and make the goal a little bit more difficult. It is an iterative process where you can achieve smaller goals in a shorter time.

This creates a rhythm of winning and you can develop self-confidence and belief from this.

This is also used in the computer games industry where the first few stages are always easy to get you hooked to it. After that, they need to increase the level of difficulty so that you don’t get bored.

I have found out in my work with hundreds of teams that when people win small, they want to win more.

They start taking more steps forward. Some even take bigger steps.

You might ask: What if they just keep winning small and don’t grow more? My answer is simple: You just have to make the next goal a little harder. Focus on what it takes to go to the next level.

 

Winning is motivational. Do not underestimate the power of small and successful steps, because people develop confidence, self-belief and start doing more.

– Kenneth Kwan

All these will lead to big changes.

 

Picture of Kenneth Kwan, CSP
Kenneth Kwan, CSP

Kenneth Kwan is an internationally recognized Author, Global Leadership and Motivational Speaker, renowned for his ability to inspire and empower audiences worldwide. With over a decade of experience, he has spoken to leaders from 40 countries, helping transform cultures and shift mindsets within Multi-National Companies (MNCs) and Government Organizations. Kenneth’s expertise in solution-focused thinking and strategic planning has guided numerous businesses toward significant results and high-performance environments. Featured in esteemed media outlets like Channel News Asia and Malaysia's BFM89.9, his insights on leadership and motivation are highly sought after. Kenneth's book, "Small Steps To Big Changes," showcases his profound wisdom and practical strategies, making a lasting impact in lectures and training programs across the region.