The Abstract Dilemma
Setting goals can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with abstract ideas that seem far removed from real-world results. Often, our goals exist in an idealistic space — within our imagination — and the challenge is translating those lofty dreams into tangible achievements.
Before even tackling the goal and facing real obstacles, this can be one of the most detrimental barriers to moving towards the results we care about. You stop even before you have started.
The solution to this abstract dilemma is simple: all you need is action steps.
To help bridge that gap, here’s a simple process you can follow to turn your abstract goals into concrete actions.
Step One: Identify the Obstacles
Start by contemplating the following question: What are 10 major obstacles standing in the way of achieving this goal?
Take your time to reflect and list each barrier that could potentially prevent you from making progress. This will help you gain clarity on what’s truly hindering your path. This will also help you get deeper into the mechanics and domain of the goal you are trying to pursue.
Step Two: Map Out Action Steps
For each obstacle, ask yourself: What are 5 specific, tangible action steps I can take to overcome this challenge?
This exercise will generate a list of 50 actionable steps, all aligned with overcoming your obstacles. Make sure these are specific and tangible.
Step Three: Prioritize Quick Wins
Once you’ve created your list of action steps, review it carefully and pick 5 items that are easiest to implement. These should be the tasks that require the least effort but can help you build momentum quickly. Taking small steps now will create the initial progress you need, making it easier to tackle more difficult tasks as you go.
A good strategy is to apply concentration of force and implement all of the action steps per obstacle, one obstacle at a time, giving full your full attention to one place and thus increasing your chances at being effective. Again, in the spirit of building momentum, start with one of easier obstacles and work your way up slowly.
Why This Works
The purpose of this exercise is to help you transition from a vague, abstract goal into a concrete action plan. By identifying obstacles and mapping out actionable steps, you’re no longer stuck in a dream-like state — you’re actively creating progress toward your goal.
This exercise will not only help you break down your goals into manageable steps, but it will also get you moving, however small the first step may be. One of the key insights you can have is that one of the most powerful forces for growth is momentum. Often, in the beginning, it’s more important to get moving than to take the most optimal step.
Challenge Yourself
Each week, choose one of your top goals and apply this process to it. Commit to doing this for 5-10 weeks with your most important goals. By the end, you’ll have made significant strides toward turning your vision into reality.
Good luck!
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