Once we began to alter our idea of what we thought was possible, we began using the whiteboard, in a very literal way, to help us narrow down the “a-ha moments.” Then we began brainstorming these business ideas and plans and putting them into action.

When setting goals and mapping out strategic plans for their attainment, most people begin with their present circumstances and build a series of action steps that lead to the final outcome. We don’t do this. This is an average approach that garners average results. We don’t settle for average anymore—and you don’t have to either.

We have a radical idea for you. Ready? Step up to your whiteboard. Now begin to map out your plan by starting at the end goal and working backwards. This approach ensures that your goal—the most important element of the mapping process—maintains its integrity and clarity. You should never alter your goals to support the action steps meant to lead to their attainment. It should always be the other way around. Starting at the end and working your way backward allows you to seamlessly avoid this pitfall. Do this always.

Don’t worry about employing the “normal” approach, or about being normal. That is for those who will never reach their true potential. That isn’t you.

This article is an excerpt from the book “The Whiteboard: Go from Blank Canvas to a Productive, Leveraged, & Highly-Profitable Business” by Chris Haddon and Jason Balin. Please click here to see more.