Effective Goal Methodology | Writing Goals Give Your Business Exit Strategy a Glow-Up

Eight (8.0) Topic of the series for Mapping Your Business Exit Strategy: Business Exit and Succession Planning—Session 1

Planning your business exit strategy doesn’t have to be serious or stressful. Think of it like planning the grand finale of your favorite show. You want it smooth, successful, and maybe even a little exciting. That starts with writing good goals, the kind that actually help you get where you want to go.

Here’s how to make your goals both effective and enjoyable to write:

Give your goals some personality:

• Start with “I” so the goal feels real and personal.
• Write them in the present tense, like you’re already living that future version of you.
• Keep your statements positive so your mind focuses on what you want, not what you’re avoiding.

Use words that spark action:

• Kick off goals with “I am,” “I have,” “I create,” or “I earn.”
• Make them sound active so your brain says, “Let’s go!”

Make your goals SMART without making it boring:

• Specific: Spell it out clearly.
• Measurable: Make it something you can check off.
• Achievable: Keep it doable, not magical.
• Relevant: Tie it directly to your exit strategy.
• Time-bound: Give it a deadline so you stay on track.

Here are some fun, future-you goals:

• “I have a smooth succession plan that feels effortless.”
• “My team runs my business autonomously even when I’m sipping coffee somewhere else.”
• “I enjoy the financial freedom I prepared for through a well-planned exit.”

When you write your goals this way, you give yourself a clear direction and a future you can actually picture.
It’s a simple step that makes your exit strategy feel less intimidating and a lot more intentional.

Contact me directly to learn more or get support with your effective goals:

Pam Hargis
Phone: 386-847-8028
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/pamhargis
Email: phargis@focalpointcoaching.com
Schedule a Call:  Calendly - Pam Hargis
Website: https://pamhargis.focalpointcoaching.com/