The world is filled with vague thinking. We say things like "I hope this works out" or "I wish things were different." Even in conversation, we often use filler phrases like “you know” or “like” that dilute our clarity. This lack of precision isn’t just a habit—it’s a hindrance.

Being specific, on the other hand, sharpens our focus and drives better outcomes. Specificity isn’t lazy—it’s laser-focused. It’s how we move from good intentions to real progress. Here’s why being specific makes all the difference:

Specific Sets Intention

When we're specific, we define our destination. It creates a clear path forward and sets boundaries for when we’ve succeeded. Whether it’s setting goals or starting a project, knowing exactly what we want helps us begin with the end in mind.

Specific Keeps Us Focused

Along the way, projects and plans can easily veer off track. We’ve all experienced scope creep—the temptation to say, “Since we’re doing this, we might as well do that too.” Specificity helps us avoid those distractions. It serves as a constant guidepost, reminding us what the true finish line looks like.

Specific Prepares Us Better

With a specific goal, preparation becomes more effective. We’re not guessing at what might be useful—we know what tools, resources, or support we need to move forward. Vague goals lead to vague plans. Specific goals make it easier to act with purpose.

Specific Helps the Brain Work for You

Our brains crave closure. When we have a well-defined target, our conscious and subconscious minds get to work on achieving it. Specificity gives our brains clarity, which leads to focus and action—even when we’re not actively thinking about it.

Specific Tells Us When We’re Done

This one is deceptively simple. Many of us keep working on things without knowing if we’re truly finished. But with clear, specific outcomes, we know when to stop. We avoid burnout, confusion, and wasted effort by understanding exactly when success has been achieved.

Take It Further

To take this further, ask yourself two questions:

  • Where in your life or work has being specific really helped you?

  • What’s one area right now where you need to be more specific?

Reflect on your past wins. Remind yourself how clarity helped. Then, identify where you’re currently unclear—and decide to get specific. Don’t let this become just another good idea. Choose one thing, clarify it, and move forward.

In a world of vague wishes and hazy goals, the ones who win are the ones who get specific—and act on it.

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Kevin Eikenberry is a recognized world expert on leadership development and learning and is the Chief Potential Officer of The Kevin Eikenberry Group. He has spent over 30 years helping organizations across North America, and leaders from around the world, on leadership, learning, teams and teamwork, communication and more.

Twice he has been named by Inc.com as one of the Top 100 Leadership and Management Experts in the World and 100 Great Leadership Speakers for Your Next Conference. The American Management Association named him a “Leaders to Watch” and he has been twice named as one of the World's Top 30 Leadership Professionals by Global Gurus. Top Sales World has named him a Top Sales & Marketing Influencer several times, and his blog has been named on many “best of” lists. LeadersHum has named him one of the 200 Biggest Voices in Leadership in 2023.

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