I’m departing from my normal techno-babble in this post to focus on life, and the application of a business concept to your personal life. First, we need to have a common understanding of what a BHAG is (Big, Hairy, Audacious Goal). I found a wonderful slide show online that lays out the common interpretation of a BHAG for companies and organizations, so take a moment and browse this presentation so we’re on the same page. I’ll be referring to the terminology in the presentation in the rest of this post, so let’s make sure you understand what I’m talking about. I’ll wait.

So, you think you understand it? If not, go type “Big, Hairy, Audacious Goal” BHAG into a search engine and read. It’s interesting stuff.

From the title of the article and the slide show I recommended you view, you’re probably wondering now how a BHAG can apply to anything but a company or project. Stretch your mind with me; let’s explore areas of life and your technical profession where a BHAG can be set:

1. Skill-set enhancement
2. Behavior towards a spouse/family member
3. Yearly employment review
4. Finances

Translate these items into goals according to the BHAG model – Action oriented, Clear, Compelling, and Bold:

1. Skill-set enhancement: By the end of the year, I will demonstrate knowledge of [blank] programming language by bringing to market a freeware product that successfully integrates sites A, B, and C into a useful aggregation of data for the common man.
2. Behavior towards a spouse/family member: The uppermost thought in my children’s minds when they look at me each and every morning by the end of the year will be that daddy loves them no matter what.
3. Yearly employment review: By the time of my next yearly employment review, I will have demonstrated all skills necessary to advance beyond my current role and be in the pipeline for a promotion.
4. Finances: By the year 2012 I will have enough money placed into my savings account to allow me to take 3 months off of work and travel Europe with my family.

All of these are BHAG’s. They are all clear in their result, revolve around an action or set of actions, are compelling to the individual setting them, and bold in their scope. Take some time this week to set some BHAG’s for yourself. If they sound nearly impossible, EXCELLENT. Ensure that your BHAG’s follow the rules (action oriented, clear, compelling, bold). When you have something to work towards, I guarantee you’ll work harder.