This time of year always brings a general sense of hope for a fresh start. Time to make a change for the better and forget the mistakes of the past. The bad part is that people generally make the same resolutions each year without taking the time to figure out why those resolutions didn’t work out in the past. If you are actually going to make a list of resolutions or a plan for your goals in the new year, then take the time to figure out the obstacles that have gotten in the way and make a plan of action to get around them this year.
Most people that are familiar with goal setting know to make SMART goals. If you are new to goal setting, here are some helpful tips with this simple acronym.
Specific Be specific about your goals. When you make a loose goal like “I want to lose weight.” there is nothing to specifically reach for. Instead make a goal like “I want to lose one pound a week for the next 10 weeks.” Now not only do you have a specific goal, but it is also measurable.
Measurable Make sure your goal is something that you can measure. Often this goes along with being specific but make a goal that you can track your progress. How many contacts do you want to make? How much money do you want to save? How much weight do you want to lose?
Achievable Do not set goals that are unreasonable, you will just be setting yourself up for failure. Losing twenty pounds this month is completely unrealistic for most people.
Realistic Dream like a child but be realistic in evaluating if you have the commitment and ability to make your dreams come true.
Time Frame Always put a time-frame on your goals. Without a time specific goal it will lose it’s priority and be forgotten in the daily grind. Get rid of the some day and make the date!
Once you have your specific, measurable, achievable, realistic goals with a time frame it is time to figure out the obstacles. What is going to get in your way? Every excuse should have an action to overcome it. It may be helpful to write some key points on why you truly want this too. Remind yourself of your passion and drive to achieve your goals. What are the rewards? Also what are the penalties of not reaching your goal? How will it make you feel? How will it effect yourself and your loved ones? Do not let your goals and resolutions get lost and forgotten until the next new year.
The Spiritual GPS 