Last night I gave a talk to a lovely group of coaches in Bristol about attracting what you want effortlessly. They were particularly keen to attract clients. There really are (at least) two ways we get what we want: 1) Set a goal and go for it; and 2) Attract it to you effortlessly. Most of us have been trained to use goal-setting as the way to get results. However, in my experience, the very best stuff in life has all been attracted. In fact, if I find myself working too hard to get something, I am now suspicious – have I set the wrong goal? (It used to be the reverse, if it came too easily I was distrustful – this was too easy – can't be right).

I'll share an example from one of my clients. She hired me because she was working really hard in real-estate and making no headway and having no real success. This is mostly because real-estate has tanked in the US and a number of other places so not the ideal time to be in the business, but also because she wasn't happy doing it even when she was making good money. She took the Highlands Program which helped us clearly see where her natural talents and abilities lay and then I encouraged her to quit her job and take the summer off to play. She did this, after some initial guilt/reluctance. After the summer ended I called to see what was happening. And sure enough, she told me I wouldn't believe what happened. Out of the blue a former professor had called and asked her if she'd be interested in working on a really exciting project overseas that had been funded by a special grant. Truly a once-in-a lifetime opportunity had landed at her feet.

And yet, it came so easily she wasn't sure. Yes, it sounded ideal, but she thought she should also pursue teaching at the local high schools as well. I asked her “Why?” After all, she could always come back after this year abroad and teach as the schools will still be there. She realized that yes, that was true and is now seizing the chance to do some really interesting and challenging work. (Not that teaching isn't interesting and challenging, but that this was a truly unique opportunity.)

What wonderful people and opportunities have you effortlessly attracted in your life? If you look, you may be surprised to see that best stuff usually comes to you. The stuff we track down and hunt may not even be all that important to you now.

My speciality in coaching is to help people be more attractive all the time so that they attract what they want simply by having a notion or an intention. After 15 years of coaching, I can tell you that it works! And it works so well you may very well give up on goal-setting altogether.

Warmest,

Talane