The Divine SWOT Analysis: Merging the ACTS Prayer Model with Goal Setting
I was recently invited to church. My own history with organized religion is complicated. I identify as agnostic. I feel the presence of a higher power in my life—I couldn’t tell you how many times I’ve tried to give up my happiness project and move on to other interests, and I keep getting nudged back on this path. And I’ve finally reached a place of cautious respect for most religions, especially those that respect others’ beliefs. Perhaps one day I’ll find a church/temple/etc. that aligns with my views and is a comfortable home for me. I’m open-minded about exploring faiths to see if there is one that fits, but it’s also not a priority for me at this time.
However, we received the invitation from Pumpkin’s friend’s family. We adore the family and were happy to spend the extra time with them in an activity that is meaningful to them (social, growth). It was an experience! I haven’t been to a modern church in a long time, and I was impressed and a little overwhelmed by the polish of this particular institution.
Anyway, the reason I bring all of this up is that in the pastor’s sermon, he introduced me to the ACTS Prayer Model. I find prayer to be interesting because studies have shown that it is as effective as meditation at changing the brain for better (physiological, growth, safety). This ACTS Prayer Model gives even newbie prayers a straightforward structure for a dialog with God.
What struck me as the pastor was walking his congregation through the model was that this prayer model almost directly correlates with a SWOT Analysis used by business executives for strategic planning. The pastor was describing “adoration” as a way of praising God for His greatness, and if you think of God exercising His greatness through you, then considering your own strengths is one way to honor Him.
I love a good SWOT Analysis and have found it to be useful even at a personal level for taking stock of goals and breaking them down into manageable steps. What better time is there for performing a SWOT Analysis than at the start of a New Year, as you’re thinking about your goals for the upcoming year?
One of my goals for the year is to start producing video content, as that seems to be a preferred format for my target audience. In strategizing these next steps, I can assess the following:
Strengths:
I have loads of content: a book and a year and a half of blog posts that can be repurposed.
I am excited about the subject, which should translate into authenticity.
I am a decent communicator and should be able to convey the information in a digestible format.
Weaknesses:
I am better at writing than I am at speaking to an audience.
I am short on experience with video editing.
I know almost nothing about optimizing content to gain subscribers.
Opportunities:
Video creation tools (camera, mics, software, etc.) have become widely available and are affordable.
Many services are available through which to publish my videos and find an audience.
Threats:
I have so many responsibilities and obligations that are pulling at me. Finding time to create the videos is going to be a challenge.
Acknowledging my weaknesses and any environmental threats helps me identify which steps I might take to help this project succeed. I may have to do some research into content optimization. I might join a local Toastmasters chapter to practice my public speaking. I could give some thought about which responsibilities I can abdicate to give myself more time for this project. But being honest about my strengths and opportunities helps give me the confidence (esteem) to move ahead with the project and reminds me to lean on the positives where possible.
Whether you find your clarity in a quiet pew, a meditation mat, or a fresh spreadsheet, the goal remains the same: taking an honest inventory of where you are and where you’re going. Have you given any thought to your goals for the coming year? I’d love to hear your thoughts—would an ACTS Prayer or a SWOT Analysis (or maybe a bit of both!) help you find your path for the months ahead?