It is the start of a new year and it’s when many people consider and make New Year’s resolutions or goals with every intention of achieving them. But according to estimates, less than 8% of people stick to their resolutions. So how do you harness the motivation and energy that comes with the New Year in a way that will be meaningful for you?
First, let’s be clear that a resolution or goal does not have to be approached with a “do all or else” mindset. I believe, many fail because of this approach. They set the bar SO high it is difficult to tackle, feeling it completely unattainable, and so they may never even start.
Let’s look at simple steps to get your New Year’s goals on target.
1) Consider areas of your life – By thinking about areas that you would like to focus on improving or changing this year, it will help you identify where to give your attention and energy. In your work or personal life, you may look at things like financial well-being, health & fitness, professional (business) and personal (family/friends).
2) Specify what you want in the timeframe you want it – In each area identify specific things you want. For example, if you wish to have a better professional life, what does that mean? Will you give extra time and energy to what you do in your business? Taking a course or training program to advance yourself in the workplace is an example of a specific goal and doing so within a set timeframe gives you a deadline. Having a deadline creates a need for action and keeps you accountable.
3) Determine how you will measure your success – How will you know you were successful in meeting your objective? If you complete a course or program, is it the actual certification you receive, or is it when you can apply the knowledge to your job daily that it means you have reached success? Only you can define success for yourself. But be sure to write down what meeting your goal successfully looks like to you. Goals written down with desired outcomes = results.
4) What will you do when you achieve it? – Creating a ritual or reward after you meet your goal will prove profitable because it gives you motivation to address and accomplish other goals and resolutions on your list. It is the guaranteed “wind in your sails.”
Following these steps will help make you meet your resolution and goals by giving you the clarity on what it is you are trying to achieve, how you will go about doing it and celebrating when it’s realized.
Happy New Year!
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