In life and in ministry, goals are important. They can be underemphasized when we do not set them with the necessary framework to achieve them. They can be overemphasized if we see our goals as the ultimate point of what we are seeking to accomplish.
A goal without a process to work toward and achieve it, is nothing more than a dream. It may be a worthy goal, but if you do not know how you will reach it, you probably won’t. The difference between a goal and a dream is the process. If you have a specific goal, you need a process to achieve it.
The process is important because it helps identify markers and measurements toward progress. Your process will determine specifically what you are trying to accomplish. Measuring it along the way will help you know if you are on the right track. The process, along with the goal, needs to be achievable. If it is not, then it is still a dream. The timeline should be realistic. We can accomplish much more over a longer period of time than we think we can and usually much less in a shorter period of time than we think we can. Last, the process must be timely as you work toward the goal.
I believe any process implemented toward achieving a goal should be principle-driven. Your vision and values will shape principles that will guide the process and ultimately aid in reaching the goal.
Do you have a goal or a dream? Evaluate your process for the answer.
Shepherd The Church 