Do you have Passion or Desire?

Over the last couple of weeks, it was impossible to listen to a news bulletin without hearing the phrase “road map” – often accompanied with the Talking Heads “Road to Nowhere”! The politicians then emerged with the “Bali Road Map” – basically agreeing to continue discussions for a further two years.

Politicians seem to like their Road Maps. Personally I have always like maps, and would go as far as saying I am very good at reading them. The difference is that politicians seem to use maps to describe plans (however vague), rather than something that basically shows all the possible places we can go.

As we head for a new year, many see it essential to start looking at new goals, “resolutions”, perhaps their own road map. I did raise the question a few weeks ago, are goals necessary? There was an excellent post by Michael Martine recently I have big hot burning desires, in which he dissected all the traditional arguments in favour of goal setting. As the title suggests, he feels burning desire is the driving force behind any achievement. My own philosophy uses the passion in a similar way.

If you read Michaels article through, he does concede that “burning desires” are effectively goals – but he is strongly against the over complexity and over structuring of goals. Using my language, unless your goals are driven by passion it doesn’t matter how “SMART” they are.

If you want to develop great self confidence you are going to have to work at it. You may need to learn or develop new skills, perhaps change some habits. In other words – it involves work. Now if you have found traditional goal setting works for you, fine. I am sure you can write out something that is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-based.

But if, like me, goal setting in this way has never really worked I suggest something different. Write out all the benefits and reasons why you want to change. How will your life be different? Why is it worth making the effort to change? Get excited at the prospect of being this more confident person.

That passion may already be there and fuel your journey ahead. If not – generate it or forget it.