PL^3 Series: Integrating Complementary Goals Across PL^3

🌟Finding Synergy by Integrating Goals Across Private, Professional, and Public Lives

Balancing our private, professional, and public lives can be challenging, often feeling like each area is competing for our time and attention. But what if, instead of pulling us in different directions, our goals could actually connect these parts of our lives? This concept of aligning goals is something I’ve focused on while building A Bright Life, that’s a passion aimed at helping others find harmony across all areas of life. Through this journey, I’ve learned firsthand the value of aligning goals to bring more motivation and purpose in my PL^3.

1. Goal Stacking: A Strategy for Balance and Efficiency

“Goal stacking” can be a powerful tool for creating a balanced approach to life. Think of it as combining goals in ways that support multiple aspects of your life. For instance, let’s say you want to develop leadership skills for professional growth. Consider applying those same skills in your personal life—maybe as a parent, friend, or community volunteer. In my early career I sat on a school board that had an open seat. I learned so much that was applicable to my work and I met wonderful people that I still connect with. Or, if you’re working on fitness, think about how it could enhance your professional resilience or connect you with others in your public life, perhaps through local events or group activities like fund raiser walks.  

Goal stacking allows you to see connections across different roles, using actions that benefit multiple areas without stretching yourself too thin.

2. Breaking Down Goals into Actionable Objectives

Once your goals are stacked, break them down into small, actionable objectives that help you get there one step at a time. Small, achievable steps can help build confidence as you make progress. For example, if you want to improve your digital communication skills, try applying clear, concise communication in your personal relationships or on social media. Not only does this strengthen your communication skills across all areas of life, but it also gives you the practice of adapting your style for different audiences.

3. Embracing Change: Your Path May Evolve

As you work toward your goals, be prepared for the path to shift. If there’s one thing I’ve learned with A Bright Life, it’s that change isn’t necessarily a setback—it often opens doors to new and rewarding outcomes. Along the way, you might discover new skills or build unexpected relationships that take your original goal to another level. Being open to adjustments can bring even more personal and professional growth than you first envisioned.

4. Evaluating and Adjusting

As you pursue these goals, check in with yourself. How are your different roles feeling? Are they still benefiting from the alignment, or is one area becoming overshadowed? This balance is about creating a dynamic flow that evolves with your needs—something I try to practice as I balance my roles with the mission of A Bright Life.

Balancing goals across roles is a challenge, but one worth pursuing. I’d love to hear about your experiences: What goals are you working on that impact your private, professional, and public lives? How are you finding alignment across them?