For Big Results – Have a Small Target

The smaller the target, the sharper the athlete’s focus, the better his concentration, and the better the results.
- Dr. Bob Rotella

In his book, Golf is Not a Game of Perfect; Dr. Bob Rotella relates a story about Ben Hogan as told by members of the Los Angeles Country Club. It concerns an exhibition round Hogan once played on the North course.

Hogan came to the 5th hole, a 476-yard par five on which the green, because of a slope on the land, is not visible from the tee. A cluster of four tall palm trees, planted only a few feet apart, stands immediately behind the green and towers above the horizon.

When Hogan arrived at the tee, he asked his caddie for a target. “Aim for the palm trees, Mr. Hogan,” the caddie replied. To which Hogan answered, “Which palm tree?” The story is cited sometimes as an example of Hogan’s perfectionism. But what it really suggests is Hogan’s knowledge of one of the fundamental psychological principles in golf: Before taking any shot, a golfer must pick out the smallest possible target.

This illustration from golf serves as a timely reminder about keeping our eyes on the prize and dealing with distractions. It also delivers an even more valuable lesson that tends to run contrary to conventional thinking –keeping things small and in perspective. Lofty goals and high ambitions are necessary; but they are achieved in small incremental steps that require a small target. Small targets can lead to big success. Consider these three observations as you aim for success.

Small targets sharpen focus. Ben Hogan knew the green was 476 yards out. But it was not his intent to get there off one shot. So the next best thing was to chart the course. Find a target and reach it. And this is the strategy within your organization. While it is important to know the vision and goals of your company, you can free yourself from a lot of stress when you have small targets to guide you.

Tony Robbins said, “One reason so few of us achieve what we truly want is that we never direct our focus; we never concentrate our power.” And this is what Hogan was doing. He first chose a small target knowing it would give him the best possible chance at the green later. And this is what good leader’s do- crowd out the clutter and maintains focus. Your big goals and dreams will become a reality when you first master the art of the small targets.

Small targets give direction. Upon the advice of the caddy, Hogan was positioning himself for the best possible chance of a good score when he would later reach the green. But before he could reach that goal he had to aim for the trees.

Smart leaders choose small targets with care and thoughtful deliberation. What small targets have you selected for your success journey? Jim Rohn said, “You cannot change your destination overnight, but you can change your direction overnight.” You will reach your goals one small target at a time.

Small targets yield great results. The benefits of small targets are obvious. Small targets keep you focused, reduces stress, are more readily achievable, and builds confidence. It is through the discipline of acquiring small targets that large ones are conquered.

Henry David Thoreau said, “I have learned, that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with success unexpected in common hours.” And this is the reward of pursuing your big dreams one small target at a time.

It might be unconventional, but as you dream big dreams and aim for the stars, dare to measure your steps and select small targets. On this path and at each target along the way, your goals will be within reach.

What small target are you aiming for?

© 2011 Doug Dickerson