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Rock and Goal

It turns out that you could learn a lot from my iPod. For example, you could learn that my music tastes run from Adam Ant to ZZ Top. More importantly, when you stop and think about it, the iPod presents an interesting analogy when thinking about your own personal success. (Now available in hot new colors!)

I submit for your consideration:

The iPod is a powerful device in a simple package. In the iPod, everything comes together like it was meant to be. In reality, my iPod is really nothing more than a glorified hard drive, a sound output, a tiny display window, and copious amounts of Beastie Boys. Each part may be simple by itself, but when you put all of these discrete elements together, you can revolutionize the music industry.

The burden of complexity is shifted to the designer. While the outside seems easy and accessible, all of the hard work takes place behind the scenes. Apple had to overcome a number of technical challenges, content distribution issues, manufacturing obstacles, and other roadblocks on their way to the iPod. Yet these efforts are largely invisible to the consuming public. (We just want our Cyndi Lauper, thank you.) Steve Jobs didn't oversimplify things, but he did keep complexity in its place.

Each iPod is a unique reflection of individual style. You can learn a lot about a person by looking at his or her iTunes library. Each iPod becomes a highly individualized device specific to its owner. Despite the fact that there are over 60 million of the little buggers out there, no two are exactly alike. They're like overpriced little snowflakes that will get you mugged on the subway. (Call me sentimental.)

I believe that our goals are very much like our iPods. (Without the cool accessories.)

Like our iPods, the best goals are beautiful, simple, and powerful. If I stop you on the street and ask you what you're up to these days, I hope you're able to shoot back something compelling and truly personal. If you can't, just say "Wait here!" and then run off to go figure it out - I won't mind. I'll just crank up the Duran Duran until you get back.

Once you've got your simple but powerful goals in hand, you're going to need a credible plan to make them a reality. ("Damn it - wait here!") Sometimes these plans will be very involved with lots of dependencies and moving parts. No need to worry - you can handle it. If the goals' outcomes are big enough and beautiful enough, you'll be able to bring them all together through persistence and effort.

Finally - when done right - your goals will be a unique expression of your true essence. They will be inextricably linked to your values and those things you love most in this world. Tapping into your values and your true potential is the way to set things in motion and change your life forever. Madonna and I urge you to "Express Yourself" through your goals. (Or by dressing like a slut - your pick.)

So whaddaya say - am I on track here? (I couldn't help that one.) Think about it - Apple was literally revitalized by that little powerhouse, the iPod. That dynamo device raised the roof on Apple's stock and set the stage for great things to come.

I'm here to tell you that your goals can do the same thing for you. (Bono optional.)