A Step in My Shoes

About four years ago, I had the privilege of attending a workshop training organized by the Orange Foundation and the Embassy of the Netherlands in Ghana. The session was practical, insightful, and engaging. We were taken through a step-by-step process of breaking down a vision into attainable and measurable goals.

Yet, as enriching as it was, I left with an unanswered question. How do I craft a vision that aligns with my purpose before I can develop it into measurable goals?

This realization opened my eyes to an essential truth. That is, before you break down your goals, you must first anchor them to your purpose; the unique contribution you’re meant to make in the world.

Rick Warren, in The Purpose Driven Life, states, “Purpose is what gives meaning to our lives.” It’s the “why” behind everything we do. But purpose on its own can feel overwhelming or even vague. That is where vision comes in. Vision is the bridge between purpose and action. It is the ability to imagine what living out your purpose looks like in the real world.

Here’s a simple way to think about it. Purpose is the reason for your existence, your guiding principle, whereas vision is a picture of what your purpose looks like when fulfilled and your goals are the specific, measurable steps that help you realize your vision.

For example, if your purpose is to empower young people through education, your vision might be to establish a resource centre that offers free mentorship and learning tools.

Stephen Covey’s ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,’ encourages us to work backwards: start with the end in mind. With your vision as the destination, ask yourself: What milestones must I reach to make this vision a reality? What skills, resources, or partnerships do I need?

“Goals are dreams with deadlines.” – Napoleon Hill

Once your vision is clear, the next step is to break it into achievable goals. One of the most effective frameworks for this is the SMART Goal Method, which stands for:

1. Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve.
2. Measurable: Include criteria to track progress.
3. Achievable: Ensure the goal is realistic given your resources and time.
4. Relevant: Align it with your purpose and vision.
5. Time-bound: Set a deadline for achieving the goal.

Always remember that purpose is the foundation that needs structure and without a vision and actionable goals, purpose remains an abstract idea.

So, writing down your vision gives you a clear picture of what you’re working toward and breaking the vision into smaller, attainable goals removes the devastation and builds momentum.

Breaking down your purpose into these achievable goals is like building a bridge between where you are and where you want to be. It requires clarity, intentionality, and persistence. But the journey is worth it.

As you take these steps, remember this quote by Lao Tzu: “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Purpose isn’t fulfilled overnight, it’s built day by day, one intentional action at a time.

Take that first step today in your beautiful shoes, in fulfilment of your unique purpose. You’ll be amazed at where it leads.

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