How to create a compelling future

Do you want to create a compelling future?

There are times throughout the year when many of us stop to reflect on where we are and start thinking about what we want to achieve next. A lot of us have tried setting goals or making resolutions, but often don't stick to them.

We are complex individuals living in a complex world. Most of us lead busy lives with high demands on many fronts, whether that's work, family, friends, studying, the media, distractions from technology, food, fitness, our homes, our cars – the list goes on and on, telling us what we should be doing and often what others expect or want from us.

We often try to please everyone, but that can end up being at our own expense. We can achieve all that's expected, but we end up becoming our 'list', going from one thing to the next without stopping to fully enjoy the moment or properly take time out – sound familiar?

We stop being a human, and end up being a human doing.

Thinking bigger

All of us can get stuck in situations that we are not truly happy with and, for varying reasons, we stay there. It's almost like part of us thinks, "Oh well, this is as good as it gets." But that is not motivating or compelling, nor are you operating at your best.

We can miss out on the things that are important to us and on being who we are truly meant to be – our authentic self.

Taking time to reflect allows us to think about our dreams, get clear on what we want and consider how we are going to achieve it.

Having worked with entrepreneurs, high achievers and people who are living their dreams, I understand what's involved; the mindset you need, the negotiation skills required both within ourselves, with our significant others and at work.

Often there is a fine line between success and failure, so it's key that you get the right support to help make your dreams a reality.

It's not just the result that matters. You can experience success, joy and personal growth throughout the journey.

The dream stage

So let's get back to thinking big.

Get a notebook and dedicate some quiet time to yourself. Ask yourself the following questions:

• If you knew you couldn't fail, what would you do?
• If you could do or be anything, what would you be?
• If you could hit the pause button and have five other lives to lead, what would you do?

These questions should help you get clear on what's compelling and, ideally, what you really want to be and do.

If you're part of a team or in a relationship, ask your partner to do the same exercise on their own and then compare what you've both come up with.

Getting the right support

Once you have completed the above, you may want to consider finding yourself a great business coach who can help you get the foundations right from the start.

A good business coach will:

• Help you navigate change, both within yourself and externally.
• Help with crucial conversations and negotiations, starting with small steps.
• Hold you accountable, so you really get things done.

As you begin making progress, you are likely to feel more energised, more aligned with yourself and happier as you move towards the future you want to create.