How are your New Year’s Resolutions going?

Happy new year!

​Did you start the new year with any resolutions? By this time, most people have already abandoned their good intentions. I think most will agree that new year’s resolutions don’t work. But it’s still important to create a plan for your life to achieve the things that are important to you. So, instead of making resolutions, try developing goals and creating a plan to successfully reach them.
 
It doesn’t have to be in January. But the new year offers a clean slate to start again after the hectic fall holiday season, when your to-do list and healthy habits go out the window.
 
So what are some things you can do to be more successful when planning and setting goals for the new year?
 

• Write out your goals: Writing down your goals increases the likelihood that you’ll reach them. Instead of vague resolutions, create goals that are SMART:  Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely.
• Use a planner: I’m a confessed #planneraddict! While important dates and appointments can be noted in an electronic calendar, like Google, a paper planner is great for inspiration, brainstorming, and mapping out goals. There is a style for everyone! Here’s a small sampling: Planner Pad, Living Well, Passion Planner, Best Self, Full Focus.
• Break your goals down into strategies: Once you’ve created your goals for the year, the next step is to break them down into workable chunks. What are the strategies you’ll use to reach these goals? What are the tasks you need to complete for each of these strategies?
• Schedule all tasks: Use a planner or electronic calendar to schedule blocks of time every day to complete your tasks. Don’t forget to review your progress monthly.
• Make time every day to work on to work on your goals! Whether it’s 30 minutes or 4 hours, the key to success is consistency.​

Goals are the thing that give us purpose in life and drive us forward. They provide focus and motivation. Take time this week to set some goals for 2018. Good luck!

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