Wait, what is a framework?
As we all know, the New Year, the first quarter is a season focused on change, and I’m sure all of you are still going strong on your resolutions… (Its okay, I’m not either…) It can be very difficult to instigate change when we are exhausted and have a million and one things to do each week. Thankfully, a new framework is available to help those of us who struggle to stay glued to our resolutions for daily goals or long-term resolutions.
The first, and most important, idea to note about a framework is that it is done in steps. Last yea,r I took a communication theories course and will forever have the concept “Frameworks are categories” ringing in my head. At the time I thought, “Well that’s great, but can a framework get me an A?” Apparently, it can!
According to a recent study, the idea of this goal-setting framework is broken down into three steps: 1. Think Big, 2. Act Small, 3. Move Quickly. While some of these words may sound contradicting, they fit like a puzzle when put to the test. In order to cross that finish line, let’s break these ideas down one by one.
Step One: Think Big
Think Big. We all have dreams, and while some of those dreams may be unattainable, (i.e. “I dream to be the first person to own a Subway franchise on Mars”), it is never wrong to dream big. So let’s look at this through the aforementioned example of frameworks leading to A grades. For academic performance, your “Think Big” big picture would be to shoot for a 4.0 GPA. This is a great, albeit non-unique, goal. It is how you get there that will make it unique.
Step Two: Act Small
Your next step is Act Small. This is where you break down your goal into sub-goals. These vary from person to person, and for those of you seeking MBA’s, this second step may require more attention being that you may have other large responsibilities, such as a career you’re looking to advance on. This is where you break out the ole pen and paper and list out the ways in which you plan to achieve your straight A’s.
Steps would go something along the lines of: Make a schedule, Read all of the necessary materials, Take notes on said materials, Be attentive and present during each class, and Do not put assignments off until the last minute.
Step Three: Move Quickly
Finally, the third step, you must Move Quickly. This means setting a timeline for your sub-goals to keep you focused and on track.
For example, “I plan to do all of my readings and notes on Monday, I want to create a study guide for my test on Wednesday, and I want to dedicate my Sunday afternoons to my online classes”.
The framework can be tailored
While striving for that 4.0 GPA is not a goal applicable for everyone, this framework can be tailored to fit your dreams. Whether it is a working for a promotion, opening your own company, or working on a big project, the Think Big, Act Small, Move Quickly mentality can get you to where you need to be. We’ll close with an illustration:
#GoalFramework
