02-Productivity Magic

Hi friend,

Welcome to the next installment of The Jalepeño Papers. This week we are focusing on productivity, specifically goal management.

We’re diving into one of the most important elements of running your business, GOAL MANAGEMENT. But, as a neurodivergent or (un)officially spicy brain entrepreneur, traditional goal-setting frameworks can feel a little off. Let’s talk about how to make goals work for you, instead of trying to fit yourself into a box that doesn’t quite fit.

Why Traditional Goals Don’t Always Work for ND Minds

Most goal-setting strategies, like SMART goals, tend to lean heavily on linear thinking, specific deadlines, and a "one-size-fits-all" approach. For many neurodivergent entrepreneurs, that can feel overwhelming and demotivating, leading to burnout or, worse, giving up before the finish line.

Instead, we’re going to create ND-friendly business goals that honor your strengths and working style.

Step 1: Break Down Big Goals Into Smaller Pieces

Start by taking your big, long-term goals and breaking them down into smaller, manageable chunks. This reduces overwhelm and gives you mini victories along the way.

For example:

• Instead of setting a goal like "Launch my product this year", break it down into specific steps:

  • Research my target market by [Date].

  • Finalize product design by [Date].

  • Set up the sales page by [Date].

  • Soft launch for 10 people by [Date].

Step 2: Align Your Goals with Your Strengths

Take a moment to reflect on how your unique brain works. Do you tend to hyperfocus on certain tasks? Do you find creative projects easier than administrative ones? Align your goals with those strengths, and don’t force yourself to fit into the mold of "shoulds" from traditional business advice.

Step 3: Be Flexible & Refine Your Goals

Neurodivergent entrepreneurs thrive in environments that are adaptable. Your goals don’t need to be rigid. You might start with a general direction and refine your path as new information comes in, or as your energy levels and interests change. Flexibility is key.

Step 4: Use "CLEAR" Goals for Simplicity

Here’s a framework you can use:

• Collaborative: Involve others for support and accountability.

• Limited: Set goals that are small in scope, so you can focus without feeling overwhelmed.

• Emotional: Attach your goals to your passions to stay motivated.

• Appreciable: Break bigger goals into smaller, digestible steps.

• Refinable: Revisit and adjust as needed.

CLEAR goals are one of my personal favorites, but here’s another method I love, especially for staying flexible: Agile Goals.

Step 5: Use "Agile" Goals for Constant Evolution

Agile goals are all about constant iteration. You set a goal, work toward it, and then quickly assess what’s working and what’s not. You adjust your actions based on the feedback you get. It’s a fantastic method if you tend to learn by doing and prefer adjusting on the fly.

The key components of Agile Goals:

• Backlog: Keep a running list of all potential goals and tasks.

• Sprint: Pick a few tasks to focus on in a short, time-limited burst.

• Review: After each sprint, assess your progress and make adjustments.

• Retrospective: Reflect on what worked, what didn’t, and how you can improve next time.

This approach allows you to make rapid changes, helping you stay engaged without getting stuck in perfectionism.

Next Steps

This week, take a moment to assess your goals. What’s one major goal you can break down into smaller, achievable tasks? How can you align it more with your natural talents? And, maybe try out both CLEAR and Agile goals to see which resonates more with you!

Remember, it’s not about reaching the goal in a certain way—it’s about reaching it in a way that feels right for you. Let me know what goals you're setting, and let’s make them stick this time! 💪

Next Week:We Tackle Personal Development.

Until then, keep pushing forward in a way that honors your brilliance!

Cheering you on!
Janell
Founder, All Brains Are Good Brains-Guiding You Toward Authentic Business and Career Magic