I recently read this statement from Chic-Fil A founder Truett Cathy regarding Core Values and long term success. He says:
“My attitude regarding the distant future is to do the best we can every day and take advantage of unexpected opportunities. The combination will lead us to success. I don’t want to set some arbitrary target out there that might lead us to make inappropriate decisions just to achieve it.”
I’m afraid that all too often our “arbitrary targets” (long-term goals) lead to either disillusionment or to inappropriate decisions in order to achieve them.
Not only is Mr. Cathy’s strategy for success impeccably practical, it’s proven. Don’t get so eager to attain what you perceive as “success” that you compromise your values grasping for it.