How To Create Your Personal BHAG?
In his book Built to Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies, Jim Collins coined the term BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) as a visionary, strategic goal.
BHAG’s are bold long-term goals, typically spanning from 10 to 30 years, and expand beyond the comfort zone and are emotionally compelling, like J.F Kennedy’s goal to put a man on the moon before the next decade starts. At that time it was an audacious goal, and it was a clear and long-term goal.
BHAG’s are not only for nations and companies but also applicable to individuals. To be successful as individuals, we need to set daring goals that captivate us and reflect our core values. A BHAG functions as your North Star and gives you direction and guidance.
How do you come up with your own BHAG?
Paint a picture of your future and fast-forward of your life for 10 years or 25 years. Do not limit yourself! Imagine you have every possible resource available to yourself. What would you like to accomplish? What would you like to be? How would your life look like? If any of your visions scare you, you are on the right path for setting your BHAG. If you feel confident that you will attain your BHAG, that means your goal is not audacious enough. Think Big!
Identify key areas. Once you set your BHAG. Identify key areas. A BHAG includes different key areas depending on individuals’ purpose. It’s important to identify different areas in order to establish balance and progress.
Define clear and specific goals. Identify a 1–2 year goals for each key area, and break down these goals into even smaller units, which are ranging from a week to a month and can be measured quickly. With this method, it is easier to adapt and achieve goals.
Measure the progress. Tracking your progress towards your goals is the most important step in achieving them. Measure your progress on a daily basis that will give you feedback and motivates you. Measuring also forces you to set concrete goals.
Celebrate! Celebrate small successes; you do not need to wait until you achieve your BHAG. Reward yourself for small wins because you deserve it.
