It is important to understand the natural process behind the creative process. As explained below there is a formula and distinctions which must be respected. When using the formula please be aware that there is also a time line process embedded within each of the eight distinctions. To fully engage in the process each distinction must be future paced in your thinking methodology. Be prepared to have amazing results.

The Foundation of “Well Formed” Outcomes

With the New Year, approaching many of us are making plans and creating goals for 2010. I have found that there are a number of well-designed plans never completed. As I looked back in my previous year’s journal, I established similar plans every year and have never reached that outcome. It is frustrating yet understandable because my underlying beliefs did not support the outcome. I needed to clean my glass of beliefs. The year 2010 will be different because I have shifted some unresourseful beliefs and now start with a clean glass. You may have had a similar experience.

When you consider the delayed or uncompleted plans or outcomes of many organizations and individuals, you may wonder what has gone wrong during the process. Many times, we look outside our behavior for the answer when the internal process is what needs attention. The context is clouded “the glass” not the content [the water]. What does that mean? When our belief system does not align with the desired outcome, our behavior returns to the old internal beliefs and so back to “business as usual”.  The system that is producing new behavior is still running the old beliefs. If nothing changes in the foundation of beliefs then nothing changes.

We often never examine the steps and process of our planning when our goals or outcomes are accomplished. We celebrate our accomplishments and then normally increase the goal or outcome for the next measurement period. Our beliefs supported completion of the earlier outcome, yet may not support the new outcome.

Solution:

A natural flow of energy stays on target because there is limited or no interference or when needed a slight shift may take place. If any interference is anticipated an adjustment to the flow pattern or path must be initiated so that the target can be hit. As a private pilot, I continue to reinforce the fact that adjustments may be made to reach the intended destination. Occasionally I may have to divert to another location for a short time before continuing to my final destination. Thunderstorms, mechanical problems, wind change and other surprises may enter the natural flow pattern. The flow of energy continues until the outcome is accomplished. The procedure seems simple enough yet in the business environment and even individual planning something different happens. The following formula has proven to be the answer that creates a foundation for accomplishing a “well formed” outcome.

“Well formed” is the secret ingredient. The created flow of energy respects the natural laws and supports the secret formula.

Well Formed Outcome:

There are eight distinctions, which form the foundation for a “Well Formed Outcome”. I will offer the eight distinctions with a brief explanation. It is best to initiate the outcome process with facilitation. Being aware of the following distinctions will help prepare your thinking and may surface some beliefs which have been below you conscious awareness.

1.        Write your outcome: You must state your outcome in a “moving forward’ direction. “I want to create passive income” not, “I need passive income so that I have enough money to pay bills”.

2.      Intent: What is the purpose of the Outcome?

3.      Evidence: How will you recognize completion? What are the benchmarks of progress?

4.      Barriers: Are there any potential barriers or roadblocks to reaching your outcome? Planning for barriers is very important.

5.      Process: What, where, how and whom will have to be involved to reach your outcome?

6.      Capabilities: Do you have what you need as far as equipment, processes, people, support etc to accomplish your outcome?

7.       Ecology: Does your outcome support you, your relationships, and your operating environment. It is important that your outcome does not create harm in anyway.

8.      Control: Are you really in control of the outcome? Here is an example of what I mean. “My outcome is to earn over $500,000 in 2010” Do I have control of that? NO, I only have control of my behavior, which will deliver a goal of that amount. Notice that the goal is not my outcome. The only control I have is my behavior. This is a major distinction because without control you may end up frustrated and disappointed. Of course, when I have earned $500,000, I can stop my behavior and not earn more. Goals are more closely accomplished when your outcomes respect the above eight distinctions. Operating within the natural laws/principles is a must behavior.

For further information or assistance with the Outcome Frame program, please feel free to contact me.

Marvin C Sadovsky, PhD

Director