It’s December 30th and you are probably thinking about setting a resolution or two for 2021. Did you know though, that only 8% of people actually achieve their resolutions?
You know why? Because when it comes to setting resolutions, we feel the pressure to be perfect. If we have a day or two that we don’t live up to our resolution, we give up.
Instead, I propose we start the new year without resolutions. Let’s shoot for progress and set appropriate action plans to match.
Taking the time to create an action plan is hard. Schedule some time to set aside all the craziness for a while and think about what your priorities are for the next year. Clear goals (in place of resolutions) help keep you on track and focused. That way, you are more likely to take action.
People who take action are happier people. Successful people have the habit of action and a sense of clarity. The power of our mind is phenomenal. If we set goals and create a plan of action, we can accomplish great things.
Start by considering all areas of your life:
- Career and Income
- Family and Relationships
- Health and Energy
- Personal Development
- Financial Security
Things to consider as you are writing goals:
- Commit to a reasonable number. Too many goals becomes overwhelming.
- Choose a goal, if accomplished, that will improve your satisfaction, performance, or success in your life.
- The goals need to be something you can control. For example a goal for your spouse or child doesn’t work.
- Decide why reaching that goal is important. This is the most important step. Maybe you want to be able to keep up with your kids, play with your grandkids, lower your cholesterol, get off of medication, or hike the Grand Canyon this summer with ease….whatever your why is needs to speak to you. When you have a strong “why” you are more likely to keep working towards your goal.
- Include goals that push you to make personal change
- Write your goals in present tense as if they have already happened.
Poor example: I need a to lose weight.
Good example: I am 10 pounds lighter making it so much easier to keep up with my kids in the backyard.
This may take some time. It is ok to work on it for a while, step away and add new goals or make some changes. Be creative. Push yourself.
Next week – creating an Action Plan