Have you ever defined goals, or developed strategies for reaching your goals, but for some reason did not quite achieve them? You may even have followed the simple SMART goal rule — yet you feel something is still missing. Perhaps motivation is lacking due to fatigue from the regular routine of life. Or maybe you are feeling a fear of failure — or even a fear of success. Whatever the reason, why not consider a different strategy — a collaborative one — for achieving those dreams of yours? One that will give you what you really need to get motivated and give you the extra surge of confidence to accomplish each step of your vision?
Perhaps the key to staying focused on your vision and to keeping your goals clearly defined is accountability — to a partner who shares the vision you have for yourself. Why not enlist an accountability partner as part of your overall strategy? This person would be a mentor, a vision keeper to hold you accountable for taking appropriate steps to achieving your goals. The right person or persons can be extremely valuable to your efforts. Depending on the scope of your vision, you may need more than one accountability partner; one who has the insights needed to support your personal goals and another who may be a better fit in supporting your professional goals.
What are the benefits of enlisting an accountability partner/mentor?
You want to find a reliable person who you aspire to be like…a positive role model. Think of someone who may have accomplished what you are looking to accomplish. This could be a friend, work colleague, counselor, pastor, family member or anyone you feel you can trust to follow up with you. Keep in mind though that sometimes working with a family member can be complicated. Be sure that this person can be objective with you.
Once you decide on a mentor, describe what you would like from them. Share with them your goal(s) and strategies. Let them know specifically what you want from them. Ask if they would be willing to commit to specific dates for following up with you. If they agree to mentor you, set mutually agreeable dates and stick to it. Always respect your mentor’s time and efforts. Also, keep in mind that this relationship, like any other, will take time to fully develop. Open and honest communication between you and your mentor is critical at all times and is paramount to your mutual success.
Good luck with your search for the mentor who will help you keep your vision alive!!