Want Success? Lock It In!

What does this mean, “Lock it in”? It means making that choice, committing to your next step. Let me share with you some examples, ways that I have come to a stronger understanding of how much of a difference it makes when you are 100% committed to achieving your goal.

Recently I was notified of an upcoming meeting, and the person organizing the meeting wanted my support as well as promotion for the event. When I repeated the event date I was surprised at the response I received: the words supported “tentative”, and though the heart was in it, the message did not inspire commitment. Would this meeting take place? I can’t say for sure. Will I tell others of this meeting, at risk of the meeting date changing, or being cancelled?

In another occasion a friend suggested taking a holiday, getting a break from the stresses felt in the midst of a business struggle. I know this person has used this approach to shift their awareness, but are they achieving the results they say they want? Success in anything, whether it is business, relationships, or personal growth takes commitment and focus, making choices and taking actions. In this case the holiday seemed to be supporting the old habits of “running away” rather than achieving the goals that will make the holiday a celebration instead of an escape.

Lock it in, lock it down, make that commitment and follow through with the actions that will achieve the results. In recent days one of my associates has reminded me of this concept. The ideas shared had an immediate effect on outcome. Even using the language of “lock it in” can make all the difference. State the intent, make the decision, then confirm the decision.

• State the Intention: “What I’d like to do today is reach an agreement when this task will be complete.  Can we do this now?”  Most people will agree because they know what is coming, and what is expected.  There is greater integrity, and a greater comfort zone for making decisions.
• Make the Decision: “I think its reasonable to complete this task in two weeks, that is long enough to plan and revise, and still maintain the momentum…”  Take charge in a respectful way – this is true leadership.
• Confirm the Decision:  Before ending the conversation it is always wise to summarize the outcome and next step, quickly and clearly stated.  ”Okay, so we have an agreement that the scope of work for this project will be complete by Tuesday August 27.  I will check in with you by email at the mid-point to confirm, and answer any questions you have at that time.”   How much more likely will people perform when they feel supported in those goals?  Add a positive affirmation such as “I believe we’ve accomplished quite a bit in this call, thank you for your input and ideas”, and even end the conversation with that “flag on the moon”, stating the outcome: “I’m very excited to know that we will have our scope of work outline in two weeks”.

Author Estee Taschereau offers individual coaching and clarity sessions for finding the greatest inner resources for success. Visit MysticMechanic.com to schedule.