I don’t know about you, but I’ve already eaten ice cream for dinner, skipped exercise class twice, and not cleaned out my closets. I already feel like I’m a bad person, and can’t stick to my “should’s”.
So, instead of making resolutions, which are usually about stopping something, (and feels like punishment), I set goals, which are about starting something. They make me feel positive, “can do”, inspired, and energetic.
I learned a few powerful processes several years ago, and I’m happy to share them with you.
First, I begin with “reviewing the year”. It’s very simple actually, I just sit down with pad and paper (I find this more impactful when I actually write them, rather than type on my computer). This is private – just for me.
I make columns, thinking about the year that’s just passed. You can create your own categories: Successes, Failures, Disappointments, Supporters, Detractors, Resentments. Here you don’t have to censor anything – I find it helpful to acknowledge some of the negative feelings, so you don’t hold onto to them. That way, you can move ahead.
Next comes my favorite part: Setting Goals. I set them in several categories: Career, Income, Relationships, Health + Fitness. Again, you can do your own.
I make 3 columns: 5 years, 1 year, 6 months. It’s important to remember the S.M.A.R.T rule of goals:
Well written goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound
And they answer the question: How Will I Know When I’m there?
I hope this gets you thinking and more important, moving.
If you’d like to know more details about how to jumpstart your year for success, check out the new version of my book “YOU x 2”. It’s chock full of helpful ideas about Peer Mentoring, Goal Setting, Skills Inventory, etc. (an earlier version was called “A Swift Kick in the Can’ts”)
And finally, HAPPY 2023, and wishing you the most Successful Year Yet!
