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Alisandra Photography Blog

In college I was a member of an organization that taught that Vision, Goals and Steps were 100% necessary for success.  Because if you don’t know where you’re going, how can you move forward?  Chad and I sat down prepared a list of goals for us personally, and professionally for this year.  But, in order to write goals, we have to have some sort of vision…

Vision.
that which is unattainable, but is the inspirational projection
of where you’d like to be, and the framework
for your strategical planning.

Our vision is simple. Know God. This is huge. Totally unattainable, but  we recognize that it is our hearts’ desire and something that we’d like to base our lives and activities around.  How can we propel ourselves in that direction?

Goals.
conceivable [put them into words],
achievable [you have the time and energy]
statements of intent that propel you toward your vision.

Goal 1. Remove Food from the throne in my life. At first, my first goal was: lose 10 lbs.  I have gained weight since being married and experiencing Christmas with two families, and I just wanted to get rid of it.  However, I realized that this statement in no way propelled be toward Knowing God more.  So what is wrong with my focus?  Food and weight is not the issue.  The issue is Idolatry.  Food has become an idol.  When I’m bored? I eat.  Tired? I eat. At a party? I eat. Waiting? I eat. Meal time? I eat (too much).  Goal 2. Memorize scripture. Simple and self explanatory. I love reading the bible, but how much of it actually sticks.  How can I really KNOW God if I don’t KNOW what He has to say?  Goal 3. Keep daily and weekly “To Do” lists. I love lists. I love organization.  But sometimes I get lazy.  I need a list to accomplish in order to be active and busy and moving forward.  Yep, I’m THAT girl. This will help me defeat my lazy nature and keep me from getting distracted.  Goal 4. Host a party. I feel a little silly to admit this.  I have a fear of hosting.  It stems from disasters where I was young and tried to have a party where I combined two groups of friends.  They didn’t mingle.  Disastrous.  Scarring.  So, this year, I will host a party.  Not sure what kind, or where, or when.  But it will happen!  Goal 5. Finish the books I start. I am NOT a reader.  And if I read, I do not read stories.  The last story I read was Harry Potter… #4. I do, however, read Christian books or the bible.  So, right now, I WILL finish Crazy Love by Francis Chan, and these biblical books: Colossians and Matthew.  I need to break the habit of not finishing what I start.  What are some practical ways I can get there?  [if you are waiting for some images, look no further…]

Steps.
measurable and time restricted statements of intent
that propel you toward your goals.

(each one pertains to the goal listed above)

1. Run 6 miles per week. Don’t eat after 8:30 pm. “Don’t drink your calories…” [thanks Biggest Loser]. Eat correct portion sizes… [you can always get a box!].

2. Memorize 1 verse every two weeks… [i’m a very bad memorizer]. Use a little flip book to get you started.

3. Make a template for a to do list that works for you. Fill it out as best you can each sunday.

4. Organize ideas by the end of Feb. [instead of an image, I pulled this link from Martha…]

5. Read EVERY day. One page or 50. EV-ER-RY-DAY.