Setting Goals For The New Year

Happy New Year!

This is the time to reflect back on the previous year and to set goals and intentions for the New Year that is upon us.  The slate has been wiped clean, and anything is possible!  Many people like to set resolutions and declare desires for the upcoming year, but unfortunately the majority of them are never seen out.  It is very common for individuals to start strong, but not follow through with their goals until they become a reality.  Why is this the case?  Does it come down to willpower, ambition, or drive?  While these things do play a role, a major contribution to the success or failure of new goals is how goals are determined in the first place.

One technique for helping succeed in this area is to set SMART goals.  This is an acronym for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely.  If personal goals can be identified in each of these areas, it can really help an individual to be successful.

Specific

When beginning to set a goal, it is important to make sure it is specific.  If a goal is too vague or too vast, it is easy to get lost in it.  The more precise the objective is, the easier it is to visualize and go after.  For example, a specific goal of jogging three days a week is a much better option than a general goal of simply getting in shape.

Measurable

As goals are being created, it is a great idea to make sure they are measurable in some way.  Having the ability to measure success is a great way to stay motivated and ensure that the end goals are met.  Continuing with the example of running, it would be a great idea to add a measurable goal such as time or distance to help keep you accountable.  This could be as simple as jogging for 15 minutes or for a half mile on those three days.

Attainable

Creating targets that are attainable is a critical step in the goal making process.  If the goals are too difficult to reach, it is easy to get discouraged and the chance of success is reduced.  On the other hand, if the goals are too easy and are not challenging, it leaves little room for growth.  Finding the sweet spot between too hard and too easy is a something that should be considered when outlining objectives.

Realistic

It is important that the goals being set are realistic and in line with the capabilities of the individual.  If your goal is to start jogging this year with an Olympic appearance by summer, I’ve got some bad news for you.  If your goal is to start running now with an entry into a local 5k fun run by summer, you are more on track!  Everyone has different challenges and skills.  It is vital to identify yours and create realistic goals around them.

Timely

Creating a timeframe in which the goal should be achieved can help to keep you on track.  Without a time constraint, it becomes easy to procrastinate and push it further into the future.  Make a schedule for your goals and stick to them!

What Are You Waiting For?

Life is short and you only have one shot at it!  Don’t let this be another year that slips by without reaching for what you want.  Set some healthy goals and really go after them.  Make this year the best one