Coaching (1 of 4): DART Your Way to Achievement

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I often use the analogy of the game of darts when coaching business professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs. There are many different ways to play the game, but a consistent theme is hitting the bullseye in the center of the board with your dart. You may still get points for hitting other areas of the board, but that red dot in the center is the target. The lesson to learn here in life generally, and more specifically in terms of business, is that you must have a clear target at which to aim if you want to be successful. It’s called FOCUS.

That’s not what this article is about, though. I do, however, want to stick with the theme of darts, but this time as an acronym: DART. Over the course of four articles I will reveal the application of each of the letters. Today, we begin with D – Dream.

Dream (Big)!

You’ve heard the question before: “What would you do if money were not a concern and you knew you could not fail?” Many coaches and motivational speakers ask this thought-provoking question to help listeners get out of their own mental prisons and imagine a life that could be. Though somewhat cliched, this still remains a question we should ask ourselves each and every day until we have a clear picture of the possibilities before us.

So how do you allow yourself to dream big? Here are three initial steps that will help guide you along the path.

1. Be Still

In a world full of noise – breaking news, tweets, viral videos, opinionated chatter – it has become increasingly difficult bring ourselves to a place of calm where we can actually hear ourselves think. Even amidst a busy existence, it is imperative that we schedule and protect a sacred time where we can get alone. A time away from the hustle and bustle of life; free from soundbites and free to enjoy the renewing, empowering sound of silence. Be still.

2. Heed the Still Small Voice

In the silence you will begin to hear whispers of destiny. It is in this place that you will see most clearly who you are; why you are; what you are doing; where you are going and how you are to get there. I’ve found in my own life that times of silence allow me to check my “spiritual voicemail,” and all the messages that I’ve been missing while busy are still stored.

3. Write the Vision

Once you have allowed yourself to download the picture of your future, take careful note of what you hear and see. Write an outline; draw a picture; create a chart. Do whatever it takes to clearly articulate on paper what it is that you desire to become. This image or document will become the blueprint that you use to build a life marked by value and fulfillment.

Be still. Listen. Write.

You are now on the road to achieving a prosperous and fulfilling life.

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