When I first started working
full time,
I crafted a spreadsheet
that projected
my investable cash
for the next 30 years.
I had a target
investable cash amount
every year.
When the market was up
more than I had predicted,
I was happy
to be surpassing my goal.
When the market was down,
however,
I hustled to make up
for the shortfall
by contributing more.
30 years later,
I have not only met
my rather ambitious goal
but I have surpassed it.
THIS is why it is powerful
to set benchmarks.
It allows us to correct
our trajectory
on a timely business,
redirecting our ‘boat’
when it drifts off course,
doing more or extra
when that is warranted.
Consider setting benchmarks,
especially for larger, longer term
goals.
Wow, I should have done that, too. That’s why I’ve been reading you for years. I struggle with goals that are partly outside my control and try to measure only the part under control. For example, I target a savings rate because I know I wouldn’t do the hustling. Could you please run a few stories how you deal with this problem?