What is a BHAG and why do you need one?
In my last post I discussed the film Julie & Julia and how each of the main characters had a BHAG. A couple of readers wanted to learn a bit more about this and how having one can help you achieve your Visions of Success. So, here goes…
The phrase Big Hairy Audacious Goal (BHAG, pronounced Bee-hag) was proposed by Jim Collins and Jerry Porras in their 1996 article entitled Building Your Company’s Vision. A BHAG encourages companies and individuals to define visionary goals that are more strategic. Collins and Porras define a BHAG as a form of vision statement “…an audacious 10-to-30-year goal to progress towards and envisioned future.”
A true BHAG is clear and compelling and serves as a unifying focal point of effort, and acts as a clear catalyst for action. Your BHAG also clearly defines a finish line, so you can know when you’ve achieved your goal. According to Collins & Porras (1996) having this is helpful in terms of helping you achieve your Vision because people like to shoot for a finish line.
The point of having a BHAG also reminds me of the expression “shoot for the moon, because even if you fall short you will land among the stars.”
Vision Quest Survey Report: as of today, 153 women have completed it!
(first posted 8.22.09)
