In 2024, I’m following the ‘good-better-best’ goal-setting plan
The approach allows me to set goals in three tiers that align with my capabilities
In the middle of a work meeting, I stumbled upon an intriguing concept that resonated with me on a personal level: the good-better-best goal system. This is a goal-setting approach that allows you to set goals in three tiers that align with your individual capabilities.
As I delved into the principles of it, it struck me as a potential game-changer for someone like me, who juggles life as the spouse of someone with hemophilia B, as well as a mother, an employee, and a business owner. What better time to contemplate a new approach than at the dawn of a brand-new year?
The brilliance of the good-better-best system is in its simplicity. Instead of drowning in the pressure of lofty goals, those who follow this system set alternative targets that align with their capabilities, which reduces the risk of burnout. That’s a genuine concern for me, given my attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and bipolar II disorder.
Applying the system
After contemplating it more, I decided to set the following goals for 2024 using the good-better-best approach:
Life aspect #1: Home
Good: Make ample time for chores and DIY home maintenance while being able to work effectively for a living.
Better: Implement a semiautomated home that facilitates effortless cooking and cleaning, which would allow us the luxury of time for regular maintenance.
Best: Implement an entirely automated home equipped with tools and appliances for all needs, backed by access to professionals for repairs and maintenance, and a yearlong food supply for the family.
Life aspect #2: Health
Good: Strive for zero hospital days for my husband, Jared, as well as only minor bleeds with a quick recovery, and consistent access to nutritious food, occasional workouts, and vitamins.
Better: Ensure that factor IX is ready and accessible, that prophylactic treatment and an abundant supply of nutritious food are available, and that we have gym memberships.
Best: The holy grail: Seek access to gene therapy.
Life aspect #3: Career
Good: Secure a full salary, adeptly manage multiple jobs, work toward financial stability, and set the stage for our business in 2024.
Better: Ensure the business is thriving, which would enable us to gradually reduce our working hours, replace some jobs, and ease our workload.
Best: Achieve a booming business that not only frees up our time but also becomes the primary source of income, allowing us to explore other aspects of life.
As I reflect on these potential scenarios, I see how a good-better-best system might encourage a realistic yet optimistic approach to goal-setting, acknowledging that imperfection is not a hindrance but an integral part of our journey.
It also encourages us to practice self-kindness and mindfulness in everything we do. Considering the challenges we face —both with chronic illnesses and the intricacies of daily life — these definitely come in handy!
Setting goals within reach
As we venture into the new year armed with a system that respects our limitations, the prospect of achieving meaningful goals becomes not just feasible but also incredibly empowering.
The good-better-best system becomes more than a set of parameters; it becomes a philosophy to guide us through life’s intricacies with intentionality, resilience, and a healthy dose of self-compassion. In a world where imperfections are the norm, this system offers a road map to transforming challenges into opportunities and aspirations into reality.
Note: Hemophilia News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Hemophilia News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to hemophilia.
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