We are now into January. You are likely back into your routine after the holidays.
Are you back into all of the same routines? Or, have you managed to make some headway on those resolutions?
If you are like most people, you have slipped back into all of your old routines, as seamlessly as if the year had never changed.
Many people criticize New Year’s resolutions due to timing. If it is something that you really want to change, why wait until the New Year? Why not do it right away? There is validity in this opinion.
That being said, I think there is a natural tendency towards making changes at certain times. I know many people, who are great at habit change, who always wait until the end of each quarter and year to set new goals.
At major landmarks, like birthdays, anniversaries and New Years, people often reflect on the course of the time that has passed and think about what happened. For many of us, this reflection leads to the realization that there are parts of our lives that we could improve upon.
And then follows the words “This year is going to be different…” At which point we voice all of the things that we are going to change.
“I am going to be a better parent/spouse/friend/child.”
“I am going to lose some weight and be happier and more confident.”
“I am going to work really hard and get a promotion.”
Those are all great achievements.
So why have you not started to do anything about it yet? (I do not think it is because you are lazy or lack motivation.)
Look back at those statements. Do you notice something that is missing?
I will tell you that those people I mentioned earlier, the ones who are great at habit change, their goals do not look like New Year’s resolutions.
The difference between those of you who achieve the things that you want and those of you that do not, is a plan. The biggest flaw in most New Year’s resolutions is that they lack any sort of planning.
Without a plan, your resolution is just a wish.
Now I know it’s not January first. But this year is still very fresh. There is a huge 2014 blank slate stretching out before you.
So for those of you who are serious about making this year better than last year, I recommend the following:
1. Open up your phone or computer.
2. Pull up your calendar.
3. Pick a day this week and block off two hours of ‘you time.’
4. Go to a coffee shop or other cozy place.
5. Turn your phone and computer off.
6. Get out a fresh piece of paper.
7. Finish these sentences:
This year I will…. (The thing you want to achieve).
I will achieve this by doing the following… (Very clear action steps that you will take to reach this achievement.)
It may be helpful for you to set small goals that you can achieve every day, week, month and quarter that will add up to your yearly achievement.
8. Put these goals and plans in a place that you will see them often. Preferably daily.
9. Follow your plan.
10. Have a great year!
If you need some help deciding what you would most like to accomplish this year, here are some great questions to lead you in the right direction.
I would love to hear from those of you who have set great plans for this year! What are you working towards? How can I help you to be successful?
Now its your turn. Do you set New Year's Resolutions? What goal setting strategies work best for you?
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