Welp, it’s that time of year where we are hearing all the buzz words that surround New Years resolutions. Not a huge fan. However, I really do like having goals and intentions and what better time than a new year. I don’t care when you do it: new year, birthday, 4th of July, Monday. What really matters is setting goals for yourself and finding ways to stick to them.
So what are some of the goals you have made for yourself?
I set goals for myself for all aspects of my life. I really like to set a financial, personal, professional, and physical goal. Each year it’s a little different but I make sure to write it out and find little ways to make it happen. They aren’t usually that big and sometimes they aren’t goals that will take the whole year to complete. In fact, I set daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly goals. I also set goals that are intended for my entire life.
How can you ensure you achieve those goals?
Write them down
Have some journal or planner where you specifically write down your goals and intentions. Make it into a checklist so you can intentionally “check it off” when it’s completed.
Use the S.M.A.R.T. principle.
Make sure your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound. Your goals need to be specific, not vague, have an actual quantifiable measurement (even if it’s something you create), realistic in that you can actually achieve the goal, it should align with who you are as a person, and you should have a time frame.
Have a weekly meeting with yourself
Talk to yourself weekly and set an appointment to do so. If you have achieved your goal, reward yourself. If not, have a candid conversation (and write it down) about what worked, what didn’t, what you would change, and how you will improve upon it next time.
Celebrate the small victories!
You will definitely make mistakes and you will definitely screw up. You won’t meet deadlines, you will lose track of your objectives, and life will get in the way. Do NOT beat yourself up. You are human and it’s all part of the journey. Treat your mistakes and learning opportunities.
Over the next few weeks, I will be documenting my journey on sticking to my goals. I will highlight my 4 different goals, my pitfalls and struggles, my successes, and I will hopefully be able to help you along the way. Would love to hear some of your thoughts and experiences!