Are We There Yet?

Schools are often asked, when they go for external validation; "how would you know when you've arrived at your vision?"

Many Schools struggle with that and the thing is, they are not alone. How people if you asked, would be able to tell you with such clarity and details about their goals in life; or in other words, their definition of success.

The thing is, once we understand the concept of goals setting, that issue resolves itself.

Goals setting, a very fundamental aspect of our lives, is something I feel that everyone should learn. If aligned to our purpose or mission in life; then goals setting will give our lives fulfillment and balance.

The issue of how to set goals, beyond SMART, is a topic for another discussion.

One of the key aspect of allowing us to answer the question of, "are we there yet?" is this; clearly defined indicators.

Before the issue of indicators there is the clarity of "how would our vision look like when we arrive". To draw a parallel, if you are driving to the bird park; then there ought to be signs or landmarks to tell you that you have arrived. It could be a sign that says "Bird Park" or it could be the "Congo Burgers" store in front that let's you know, yes we have arrived.

Hence, unless we are able to describe in detailed how our vision will look like, it would be a case of, I think we have arrived. Its like if you were tracking in Mandai jungle and on the map the spot marked "X" indicates your destination point; unless you are able tell by comparing the spot with the actual surroundings, you really do not know!

Therefore, the first thing you must do to answer the question is to have lots of conversations with staff to determine what it looks like to have achieved our vision.

To your success!

Your friend,
Melvyn
(Sent from my Blackberry Bold)