Imagine that you are facing a field full of targets. In your hand is a bow and arrow. You put your arrow in place, raise your bow, steady your arm, draw back, and release.
Oh wait, I forgot to tell you to aim! Without aiming, it’s definitely possible that you’ll hit one of the many targets in the field, but what good is that if it’s not the right target? It’s possible, but pretty unlikely that you’ll manage to hit the right target if you don’t aim at it. You might not hit any targets, and there’s no way you’ll be able to hit all of the targets with that one shot.
So what’s my point?
In so many areas of life or work—whether pursuing set goals or marketing a product or service, it is critical that you very carefully select a target. Without being specific, intentional, and focused, your chances of success are pretty slim. Just like in the archery analogy, most likely you’ll either not hit any targets, or you’ll hit the wrong one.
If you’re pursuing a goal—personally or professionally—be clear about where you’re aiming and what it will take to get there. If you’re marketing a product or service, be specific about who you’re marketing to and how to get their attention.
Don’t try to pursue too many goals at once. Don’t try to market to everyone. You can’t do everything, and you can’t please everyone. Be specific, be intentional, be focused. Select your target.
How about you, what are or should you specifically be aiming at?
