what are you working on that’s big?

I hope you took us up on our offer of a copy of Corsini 2015 Work-Life Goals Template. If you’d like information on our blog about that and how to get the Template and put it to work for you, click here 2015 Work-Life Goals Template (pdf) or 2015 Work-Life Goals Template (word.)

The document is designed to help you set and reach your important goals—I’m talking about the big things with significant, long-term consequences.

I started thinking about “the big things” after listening to Andy Stanley who has one of my favorite podcasts. He does several, but the one I listen to most is his Leadership Podcast. Andy is a leadership communicator, author, pastor and founder of the Atlanta-based North Point Ministries. He is one of the best speakers I have ever heard, so whenever I get a chance to watch or listen to him, I take it.

One occasion that really resonated with me was the “Leadercast Live 2014” event in Atlanta, which I saw via a worldwide video conference. His talk revolved around the question, “What are you working on big?” By “big” he meant something bigger than just you … or me. His question led to a discussion of “beyond-you” leadership.

I was so taken by this big idea that I added it to our 2015 Work-Life Goals Template.

“What are you working on big?” is the kind of question that requires a real answer. You can’t bluff your way through it because it’s specific. It references something significant. When someone asks, “What are you working on?” people tend to blah, blah, blah on and on about this, that and the other. When someone asks, “What are you working on big?” you should either have an answer or prepare to be quiet.

So, what are you working on big?

I’ve got one person in my coaching program who has a $2 million book of business. He wants to grow that to $4 million within the next five years. And as his coach, I’m excited for him. I have another client whose five-year goal is to grow his business from $46 million to $103 million. I’m pretty excited for him, too!

But “big” doesn’t have to be so very big in order to still count toward what an individual wants to do.

I have another client who recently started a monthly blog. Since he wasn’t writing or publishing anything before the blog, putting his thoughts and ideas out there is plenty big for him. And that’s also exciting.

I got a call from someone last week who has never stood up in front of a roomful of people and given a talk. In fact, this person has a tremendous fear of public speaking, so I suggested communications training with a proven instructor. The “big” thing in this person’s life is to be able to talk to a live audience within the next three months. Again, that’s big and exciting as well as inspirational.

Take time today to answer the question, “What are you working on big?” If you’re happy with your answer, that’s great! Congratulations! If you can’t answer the question or don’t like your answer, then maybe it’s time to find something “big” to do.

I’ll encourage you to begin the process of working on what’s “big” for you. Start today. Right now. Because when you can honestly and fully answer that question, you’ll do what you do better.