According to the text, what should goals be treated like?

Goals should be treated like mission statements because they serve a critical role in guiding the focus and efforts of individuals and teams within an organization. Just as mission statements encapsulate the purpose and primary objectives of an organization, goals provide clear, measurable, and time-bound targets that help to align actions and decisions with the organization's vision.

By treating goals as mission statements, leaders and their teams can maintain clarity about what they aim to achieve and ensure that all members are working towards common outcomes. This alignment is essential for fostering collaboration and motivation, as it allows individuals to understand their contributions toward broader organizational aspirations. Furthermore, this approach encourages regular reflection and assessment of progress, which is vital for continuous improvement and success.

This perspective highlights the importance of setting goals that are not just arbitrary targets but reflect the core values and objectives of the organization, much like effective mission statements do.