In my previous post we discussed the need to set specific goals. According to author and professor Heidi Grant Halvorson the second important factor in achieving our goals is to do what is called “mental contrasting;” What this involves is contrasting where you want to be with where you are now. Think about what it will look like when you’ve achieved your goal. If you are a start-up and cash flow is an issue, imagine having the cash you need to pay yourself a good salary and having extra money in the bank. Think optimistically about how that will feel and what it will be like. Get really clear and vivid with this. Next take a look at where you are now and reflect on the obstacles that are in your way.
Perhaps you may need to improve a skill; like your sales skills. Or, your network isn’t big enough. Typically there are one or two significant obstacles that need to be dealt with. Doing this exercise helps you get clear on what exactly it is you need to do. Studies have shown that mental contrasting reliably leads to greater effort, energy, planning and goal achievement.
