Richard Branson is one of my entrepreneurial heroes. I have always been inspired by his ability to think big. He is not afraid to challenge the status quo and motivate people to think outside the box. Let me share one of my favorite Richard Branson stories.

Thinking Too Big
One day, Branson agreed to give an exclusive interview with a major music publication in the United Kingdom. During the interview, Branson told the writer that Virgin Records had developed a new technology that would change the music industry forever. He went on to describe a small device that contained all of the world's music, allowing owners of the device to play any song or album on demand and for a small fee.

The moment the story was published, Branson received an overwhelming number of phone calls from music industry insiders. Artists and executives alike pleaded with Branson, insisting that Virgin Records not release the device. They believed this new technology would destroy the music industry and threaten their livelihood. This innovation would be the beginning of the end.

Hours after the uproar, Branson announced that the story was merely a joke. It was April Fool's Day in the mid-1980s and just one of Branson's many publicity shenanigans. Branson was thinking big, perhaps too big at that time. But his wild idea doesn't seem so big anymore. Less than two decades later, this technology was released by another big thinker, Steve Jobs with the launch of the first Apple iPod.

So what does it take to move a big idea from the category of an unrealistic April Fool's prank to that of a tangible product or service? Let me suggest two things: Goals and Teamwork, and both are essential to thinking big and real world execution.

Establishing Goals
(1) Goals should be plural. It is important to have a variety of goals. Think big and consider your legacy. What do you want to accomplish in the ultimate sense? From there, consider the next decade or perhaps the next five years. What do you want to accomplish in the mid-term? Finally, consider the near-term including this year, this month and even today.

(2) Goals ought to be visible. Put your goals on paper. By simple definition, a vision is something that can be seen and is easily identified. What's your vision for your personal brand, your business or your family life? Take time to write down your goals, but be diligent to make sure they are clear and easy to articulate.

(3) Goals should be measurable. When you establish multiple goals that are clearly articulated and written down, you establish the framework to measure your progress. It is important to know that you are on the right path, that you are passing critical milestones or on the flip side, that you need to readjust and get back on track. Clear, measurable goals are essential to drawing and following your roadmap for success.

Teamwork
One of my biggest learnings in business and life is that I cannot accomplish my goals ... alone! I believe one of the most significant factors in moving from dreams to reality is teamwork. In business, it is important to rely on internal team members as well as external partners. Focus on your strengths and be willing to ask for help in areas of weakness. The combination of measurable goals and teamwork will put you on the path to success. So think big and make your dreams come to life.