When people think about making New Year’s resolutions, they often think of the big picture and set goals that are unattainable. Instead of making a resolution to lose thirty pounds by the end of the year, you may want to set five small goals for the new year of losing ten pounds every two months.
Setting smaller goals, no matter what those goals may be, are easier to stick with and accomplish than long range, larger goals. These smaller goals are like stepping stones along a path. Follow each one and before you know it, you’ll have reached the end and succeeded in meeting your New Year’s resolution.
Be specific about the goals you want to meet. The more specific the goal, the more likely you will be to work hard at obtaining it. Know what you want to accomplish and even why you want to accomplish it. If your reasons for wanting to do something aren’t strong enough, it will be easier to give up.
Set measurable goals. If you haven’t been specific about what you want to accomplish, why you want to accomplish it, and how you’re going to do so, how will you know if you’ve actually achieved it?
Write your goals down, being sure to specify the date you hope to achieve it and how you will determine whether you’ve been successful or not. Hang the list of goals up where you can see them regularly. When you see your goals written out, you’ll be much more likely to achieve your goal than if they are hidden away in a file folder somewhere.
Keep a journal about your progress and record what you’ve done in reaching for your goals. Discuss things that have worked and things that haven’t. Be specific so you know what to do if you have a similar goal in the future.
Don’t be afraid to share your goals with others. Telling others will help solidify your commitment to accomplish these goals. Ask your friends and family to hold you accountable by asking you how you’re doing on your goals.
Renew your commitment to succeed in case something goes wrong. With small goals you can see what you’re doing, know why you’re doing it, and can remain committed even in the worst circumstances. Celebrate each of your successes and move on toward the next.
When you set five small goals for the New Year instead of one, your chances of success are much higher than having one large goal. Not only will you be able to measure how you’re doing, you can use the goals as a means to know where you are on the journey.
