It's a common understanding in our family when driving or even walking in unknown places, NOT to follow Barbara. She walks as if she knows where she is going, but more often than not, she is heading in the wrong direction. She just does it with such authority that everyone naturally follows!

But to get where you want to be, you have to know what direction you are headed and what the final destination looks like. If you're not clear where you're headed, it's no wonder your life is chaotic! Here's a couple of ways we try to keep Synthesis (and ourselves) on track:

1. Brainstorm at least twice a year with a trusted partner about where you want to be 6 months, 1 year, even 5 or 10 years down the road. Don't be afraid to dream big! Be audacious but realistic. It may be unattainable to be an astronaut in six months, but not to take classes to get that degree you want.

2. Write it out. Create a collage, a treasure map if you will. Put it 'out there', not just in your head; remind yourself frequently about your goals.

3. Step on it. Every week, if not every day, do ONE THING that brings you closer to your goals. Every step forward is progress, no matter how small.

4. Measure your success. Take stock - are your goals constantly being subverted? If so, figure out why you won't allow yourself to succeed! Only you can make the effort to get from here to there.