Podcast Episode Summary: Setting and Reaching Goals with Purpose

Hosts: Dr. Phil Boucher & Dr. Marina Capella

Book Discussed: All It Takes Is a Goal by John Acuff

Key Highlights

Overview of the Book

* All It Takes Is a Goal explores how to identify, prioritize, and achieve meaningful goals.

* Acuff uses personal anecdotes and practical frameworks to help readers move from “idea” to “action.”

* Especially relatable for perfectionists, over-thinkers, and high-achievers.

Identifying Meaningful Goals

* Best Moments List: Reflect on past experiences that brought you joy to guide future goals.

* Avoid “should” goals (based on external expectations) in favor of goals rooted in personal fulfillment.

Three Types of Goals

* Easy Goals

* Timeframe: 1–7 days

* Low effort, low cost, builds momentum

* Examples: Send an email, post on social media

* Middle Goals

* Timeframe: 30–90 days

* Requires scheduling and consistency

* Examples: Organize a clinic event, create a new service line

* Guaranteed Goals

* Timeframe: 3–12 months

* Must be within your control and measurable

* Examples: Train for a half-marathon, take regular voice lessons

Lessons Applied to DPC Life

* Both hosts discuss personal examples: starting autism support services, planning clinic events, learning new skills (like singing).

* Importance of breaking large goals into achievable steps and celebrating small wins.

* Middle and guaranteed goals often involve delegating and time management — crucial in DPC practice.

Perfectionism and Progress

* Perfectionism is a common “goal killer,” especially among physicians.

* Phil stresses the value of “B+ work” over paralyzing perfection.

* Emphasis on building confidence through small successes.

Finding Time for Goals

* Acuff encourages reclaiming “hidden time” (e.g., waiting in the car line, at the airport).

* Quote: “The reason you're busy is because your imagination is bigger than your calendar.”

Working Genius Concept

* Phil also introduces The Six Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni.

* Recognizing your team’s strengths (idea generation, follow-through, execution) helps with delegation and goal completion.