What is a BHAG, you may ask? It stands for ‘big, hairy, audacious goal’.

“A BHAG is no ordinary goal,” Antram tells Stylist. “It is a big, hairy, audacious one. “Forget setting SMART goals: all you need is just one that enlivens and excites you in equal measure. It is what keeps you alive in the good times and the tougher times. The term was coined by Jerry Porras and Jim Collins in the book Built To Last: Successful Habits Of Visionary Companies.”

The point of a BHAG is to really think big. What would you really, passionately, love to achieve? What excites you? What makes your heart skip a beat?

Now, of course, figuring out your BHAG won’t magically solve all problems, and if you feel like your motivation is suffering due to issues like chronic stress, rustout or mental health issues, it’s vital you investigate these issues and tackle them. But for that nudge of motivation once any big problems are sorted, you need to have a BHAG. Otherwise, you’re going to feel a bit purposeless.

Lacking motivation? Here’s why you need a BHAG to get re-energised