I love inspirational quotes. Many have changed my life, but probably none more than the following: “Begin with the end in mind.” This is a quote by Stephen Covey from his best-selling book, ”7 Habits Of Highly Effective People.”

The reason this particular quote means so much to me is the fact it critical to everyone’s success in not only their career and business, but every aspect of their life. I will focus on why I see it is so important in our careers and business, but please know there is no way to separate it from all avenues of our lives.

Before you ever start a project of any importance you must think of what you want in the end. This is a process of thinking and dreaming. After speaking with people regarding their career or business I can often find myself asking when and why they stopped dreaming.

In order to begin with the end in mind you must first dream. In order to dream, you must ask yourself questions. I am no longer surprised at how many people seem to have a fear of asking themselves thought provoking questions. I hope you will take on the challenge of asking yourself some questions, even if is a little uncomfortable at first.

Obviously in this week’s article I am encouraging you to begin with the end in mind – or dream. Let me throw out questions for you to ask yourself in regards to your career or business. Some may seem to have very little to do with career or business success, but our lives are so integrated – everything is connected.

Here is a list to get you started, but it is by no means exhaustive.

Where do I want to live?
What kind of house do I want to live in?
What kind of cars do I want to own?
How would I describe my dream job or business?
Do I want to be debt free – other than my home?
Do I like to work alone or with other people?
Do I enjoy solving problems?
What do I do that makes me feel joy and fulfillment?
Do I have a plan which incorporates all the answers to the questions?

I encourage you to start with this list and add your own questions. I cannot express to you how important it is to take the time to ask yourself these and similar questions. Be honest with yourself and don’t be afraid of the answers. Even if the answers lead you on a path you had not planned – it is your life. You cannot know what your next step is if you do not know your final destination.

Today I want you to take just one question from the list above and dream about your answer. In other words, dream the end, so you can begin. Have you stopped dreaming? Will you let yourself dream again? Begin with the end in mind!