Interesting and diverse evidence from Mt. Everest climbers and entrepreneurs tells us we should hold our goals lightly.  While goals can create focus, motivation, and alignment, they can also get us in trouble. When I'm lax in setting goals, I like to think this evidence supports my behavior.

Christopher Kayes was on Mr. Everest the year that there were a shocking number of deaths because climbers refused to turn back when nearing the top, despite being well beyond the safe turn-back time of day.  He was so impacted by the losses that he made it his life work to explore what happened - they were too focused on their goals.  He applies the same analysis to companies who refuse to cut their losses and jettison an unsuccessful product or project because of the level of commitment to the goal.

I have a friend that is very goal oriented in her personal and business life.  In both cases, year after year, she sets five year goals in a variety of categories, including financial, professional development, health, family, etc.  Each year she accomplishes much and at the beginning of the next year, resets her goals.  As a cook, she's more the type to pick a recipe, go to the store and buy the ingredients, and come home and create the recipe - accomplishing her goal.

I tend to be more of an opportunist - seeing what the possibilities are and making the most of them.  Years ago, when I used to cook, I'd just open the refrigerator and use what I found to make dinner.  In business and my personal life I'm the same way.  I scan my environment and pick a general direction and then advance boldly, viewing it all as a sort of adventure (as opposed to a trip with a fixed destination.)

So what happens when we formalize and hold tight to goals? Circumstances change, and goals can blind us - causing us to charge ahead in spite of danger (having already committed so much), or miss an important new opportunity that might take us in a new direction.

One advantage to the loose goal setting style is that it is a little less intimidating, because you see the points along the way rather than only the end points.  For new entrepreneurs, for example, thinking about how they want their business to be in five years may be too much of a stretch, but finding new markets and getting their product out the door may seem more possible.  

And finally, the ability to accomplish goals is often dependent on your team.  Sometimes you need to go out and get the talent and skills for the goals you've set.  But other times you can look toward new goals because of the unique talents and skills you've got on your team.

In any case, as this year rolls out, give some new thinking to your goals - keep them clear enough to provide focus and alignment, but flexible enough so your people can be a little opportunistic!