This is part 2 of 2 articles in this series on goalsetting and accomplishment based on lessons from Nehemiah's goals. It is recommended that you read part 1 for the additional foundational points previously discussed. You can read part 1 here.
Introduction
The lessons learned from the Biblical account in the Book of Nehemiah provide insights for us to apply to how we set and accomplish goals relating to our spiritual life, career, leadership, finances, relationships and other areas of our life. If you are seeking to achieve some audacious goals, well outside your comfort zone, you may find this discussion instructive. We started a discussion about goals earlier this year but this series provides some additional depth and more thought-provoking questions. Based on the discussion in part 1 of the series, you are likely still reflecting on some key questions such as these listed below:
What vision has God placed in your heart for your career or leadership?
How can you align your work or leadership role with a bigger purpose, to establish a transformative goal?
How often do you take time to pray and seek God’s guidance for your career or leadership decisions?
What role does prayer play in your approach to your work, career and leadership?
More Lessons for the Modern World
Having discussed the foundational Cs of creating transformational goals and continuing to pray with purpose, let's elaborate on the other keys lessons on goalsetting and accomplishment. These three 3Cs will enable you to keep moving ahead with your goals.
Collaborate to Drive Action
Nehemiah had a vision and clear goal, but he could not carry out the work by himself. He needed collaborators, co-labourers or partners to complete the work. Nehemiah 3 provides a comprehensive list of various individuals, families, and groups who actively participated in rebuilding specific sections of the wall. The collaborative effort of the people under Nehemiah's leadership played a crucial role in the successful and timely completion of the wall's reconstruction. Likewise, partnerships are beneficial to goal attainment today. With direction from God, select an individual or a small group who can help you to advance the mission you are seeking to accomplish. I invite you to consider how you can inspire and lead others to contribute to a shared vision, as Nehemiah did with the people of Jerusalem. In addition, collaboration may include accountability partners. You might want to ask yourself who can help to hold you accountable for the ambitious goals you set to ensure you are consistently taking action towards your goals.
Conquer Adversity
When we set out to achieve something great, we will likely encounter difficulties. Nehemiah faced various challenges and adversities. We will mention a few of them here:
opposition from adversaries (Nehemiah 4:1-3),
conspiracy and threats (Nehemiah 4:7-9),
fatigue (Nehemiah 4:10) and
deception (Nehemiah 6:1-4).
Despite these challenges Nehemiah’s resilience and persistence were evident. He stayed the course through reliance on God and use of his various competences. When you face obstacles, take the time to determine what you can do to build resilience in the face of adversity.
It is important to be selective about who you share your goals with and to recognize that some persons are detractors or distractors. Not everyone has similar intentions as you. Also, there are some well-intentioned persons who will serve as constraints instead of being helpful. Whenever you encounter such situations, prepare to use Nehemiah 6:3 "I am doing a great work, and I cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and come down to you?". We must remain resilient and focused! I recommend that you pause to reflect on the question of how you plan to maintain focus on your goals despite distractions and opposition.
Celebrate the Results
The completion of the wall was not only a physical accomplishment but also a spiritual triumph. The people expressed their gratitude and joy by dedicating the wall (Nehemiah 12:27-30), celebrating with a grand festive procession (Nehemiah 12:31-42), playing music and songs (Nehemiah 12:27) as well as giving their offering to God (Nehemiah 12:43). Similarly, we must recognize and acknowledge that our success comes from God. We should dedicate the results and blessings to Him. Also, if there are financial rewards we should give our financial gifts to him. Make the time to celebrate and give thanks to Him. It is important to celebrate the big and small wins; that's something I am learning to do more often. I am always grateful but sometimes I don't pause to celebrate because I am often thinking about the next goal or milestone. Let us remember to pause to celebrate!
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to set and achieve audacious goals starting with the foundational principles that we discussed in part 1 and accelerating factors in part 2. I encourage you to examine your goals for this quarter and next year using the 5 lessons highlighted in this article (All 5 Cs). Like Nehemiah, we can trust in God's providence and assurance that we will achieve our goals with divine assistance and our diligent efforts.
About the Author
Michelle Gibson-Morgan is an award-winning Jamaican-Canadian leader, career coach, global speaker, and consultant who specializes in career development, change management and leadership. She is also the bestselling author of Changing Career Direction? 7 Steps to Transition to a New Career Path. Being a Christian for over two decades, she often provides insights from the intersection of faith and career/business. If you have a career topic or question you would like Michelle to address you can use this link to share it directly with her.
Very timely reminder especially at this time of the year!
Insightful, profound, and applicable to all leaders and career driven individuals! This article has a solid biblical foundation and strong, clear trusted principles about setting, achieving and celebrating audacious goals!