It you’re after a simple model that is easy to use and helps give clarity around what you want to achieve and what your options are, then try the GROW model! GROW stands for Goal, Reality, Options, Will / Wrap-up.
I think this model is fantastic. It helps convert dreams and passion into action. In addition to using it for goal setting, it is also an excellent tool for coaching and problem solving. No one person can claim this great model as their own, but Graham Alexander, Alan Fine and Sir John Whitmore have all made significant contributions.
Let me walk you through how I apply it to goal setting…follow along and apply it to your own goal…
GOAL – time to establish what your goal is and make it SMART. What do you want to achieve? Why is this important to you? Is this goal your own? To find out how to make your goal SMART, read about SMART goals by clicking here
REALITY – time to examine your current reality. Do you have the time, resources, commitment etc to achieve this goal? Do your current behaviours and habits match your goal? Are you spending time in the areas of your life that are most important to you? To really check your reality, and how your balance is tracking, complete the life balance wheel by clicking here
Once you have checked in with where you are at right now, think specifically about your goal, and your reality, in relation to that goal. Where are you right now in relation to your goal? What progress have you made so far? Are you on the right path already? Does something need to change?
OPTIONS – time for some creativity! At this point you explore your options and all the possible actions and steps you could take to move you from your current reality to achieving your goal. What could you do? What haven’t you tried yet? What are the benefits and downsides of each option?
You might like to write a long brainstorming list or develop a mind map and start drawing or writing ideas. Click here for some guidance on mind mapping. A really useful activity at this point is to ask others for help. Seek ideas, suggestions, and advice from other people and get them down on paper. No idea is a bad idea. An idea that you think at first to be silly…might just end up being your answer.
WILL / WRAP – UP – time to take action! Go through your options and decide which options work best for you and what you will do next. From your options you might be able to develop a plan of attack or maybe at this stage, things are still a bit unclear but you know what your first step will be. Agree on your first step or if you are already on the path, your next step. Make this step SMART. All that is left to do is commit. Remember to start small…start working towards your goal and go for it!!!
You can use this process for any of your goals. If, on your journey things don’t work out, review where you are at. If the goal is still important to you, keep positive and revisit your Options and try something else. A different approach may yield a completely different outcome.
For help with accountability and mapping out your path to success, make sure you add your goal and all the required steps into your SSAB goal setting tool.
Good-luck with your goal!!! Let me know how you go with this! Share your thoughts on our Discussion Board on our Facebook Page!
*Like the image for this article? I LOVE it! Taken my very talented sister Ali!! See Ali's Facebook Page for more info about her work!*