Enjoying Life’s Strategic By-Products
May 03, 2004By Chris Dardaman, CPA, CFP®, CIMA®, CAIA®
Recently, my wife Laura and I enjoyed a long weekend at one of the most beautiful places on earth — Pebble Beach on the Monterrey, California Peninsula. Once of my life goals was to play golf at Pebble Beach and we were invited to join a number of other couples on this trip. Laura and I were looking forward to a time of rest and rejuvenation.
Over the past few years, I have realized that money is no longer the most valuable currency. it is time. No matter how many resources one has at his or her disposal, everyone has been given the same amount of time. People that set and accomplish goals tend to be happier than those who don't because they are using their most precious asset (time) to make a difference in the world.
I've also learned that there seem to be two types of people in this world. On the one hand, there are some people who, no matter how advanced in years they grow, continue to have a youthful spirit. They are invigorating to be around because they genuinely enjoy living. Ignoring their age, they continue to set goals and accomplish them. I read a story recently about a man who sky-doved on his 80th birthday because he always wanted to but never had. As we continue to set and accomplish goals, life stays interesting.
On the other hand, there are others who choose to stop living long before their bodies actually stop breathing. These are the ones who have stopped setting goals in their lives.
One of the many benefits of goal setting is that often while working to achieve one goal, something unusual, unexpected or interesting happens. Dan Sullivan, founder of The Strategic Coach, calls these things "Strategic By-Products." These unexpected surprises often enhance the enjoyment of our experience if we are looking for them. Sometimes they sneak up on us and if we are not paying attention we will miss them. I was fortunate enough to experience one of these at Pebble Beach.
At the first tee, the starters remind each foursome to be sure to keep on pace so that everyone will finish their round of golf in the allotted time. On the second hole, I was ready to hit, but some guys in our group were on the green along with someone I didn't recognize. I yelled "Fore" so the guys would move always from the green. Our caddie immediately exclaimed, "Will you knock it off, that's Arnold Palmer." Embarrassed and excited, I ran up to the green where our foursome and caddies had a chance to meet him.
Arnold is one of the owners of Pebble Beach. He was inspecting the grounds work on the green prior to meeting with fellow partners Clint Eastwood, Peter Ueberroth, and some others. He was very gracious and talked with us for a few minutes.
I had been so focused on my shot that I almost missed the opportunity to meet Arnold Palmer! As you think about your own situation, here are a couple of questions to ask yourself:
- What goals am I striving for?
- Am I on the lookout for strategic By-Products?
Whether you are approaching retirement, already retired, or not even close to retirement, we want to encourage you to set goals for your life. If you do, you'll be more focused and a whole lot happier. And don't forget to remain on the lookout for Strategic By-Products along the way.
If you would like more information on goal setting, check out "The Goal Cultivator Series" from The Stratgetic Coach at 800.387.3206 or visit www.strategiccoach.com.
