Thinking BIG

You have to think anyway, so why not think big? These famous words of real estate mogul, Donald Trump, somehow rings in my head.

Thinking. When we think, we are actually putting words together in our head and trying to make sense of it. And it depends on how many different perspectives we can see it from, it will also determine our choices. In other words, how we string our thoughts together will determine what kind of choices we make. For instance, when we are upset about a particular person, whatever the person says, we will tend to take it negatively and hence choose not to believe or agree with that person. Therefore, getting the sequence (or syntax) right in the first instance is really critical, as the choices we make will determine the kind of results we get.

Remember this: TO MAKE MAKE BETTER CHOICES, YOU MUST CHANGE YOUR MINDSET!

There are many reasons why thinking big works. At the individual level, what will cause you jump out of bed every morning, a BIG goal or a tiny goal? Still at the individual level, will you be more creative and innovative when your goal is BIG or small? Will you be disciplined enough to make sure that you stay on your path, if you know that your goal is BIG or small?

Let's move to the team level. When you work in a team, will you be more excited if the goal of your team is BIG or small? Will the number of benefits or spring-offs be larger if your team's goal is BIG or small? And if we move up to the organisational level, will you be more excited to work for an organisation that has a BIG goal or one that has a small goal?

What about your kids? Do you think they will be more excited if you tell them you'll take them to Disneyland or if you'll take them to the playground in the neighbourhood?

Now, don't get me wrong by linking BIG goals to material things or being greedy. BIG goals have the energy to create synergy. BIG goals inspire you to work on your action plans. BIG goals keep you going. BIG goals keep you energised. Of course your goals can be, "I want a BIG house". Or, "I want a BIG car". However, when you do achieve those goals, the next question you'll ask is, "what's next?" If you can get a 20,000 sqft house, you may start wanting a 30,000 sqft house. And it never ends.

So, here when we talk about BIG goals, we are referring to goals that will not only bring about benefit for your good self, but also the well-being of those around you, those working with you, those whose lives you impacted.

Now, let me offer you this challenge: See how many of your original goals are BIG, as in it brings about benefits beyond yourself.

Love and Respect,
Melvyn Tan