So this is the time of year that everyone puts thought into the bad habits they are going to break in the next year and things they want to do better. Honestly how many people actually carry out their New Years Resolutions? For me a resolution is not as binding and has no repercussion for not meeting. Where as a goal I something tangible that I will move Heaven and Earth to achieve. If I don't hit that goal I have failed. In a personal aspect its I have failed myself or someone I love or care about. From a professional aspect if I don't hit a goal then I have let down my crew or boss down and have even put my job in jeopardy.
So to me goals are something to take serious and make happen. Will you be able to meet every goal every time no its not always going to happen. But if you set SMART Goals then rarely will it happen. Yes life gets in the way and throws you curve balls if you are focused and organized then you can still hit them out of the park. Think about the goal you want to set does it meet the criteria below. Most important be honest with yourself. If you lie to yourself you are only cheating yourself. Lastly the most important part of setting a goal is to write it down private or public doesn't matter if it is written then it is real.
Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Realistic
Time bound
Once you have your SMART goal you have to have a plan to make it happen. You need to have a plan of action if you fail to plan you plan to fail. Also remember that the only way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time. Yes I know they are both a bit corny but also very tied and true. All the wishing in the world only gets you dreams that never come true.
Lastly you need to believe in yourself to make your goals happen. A great cheering section never hurts as well. Share your goals with someone you know and trust who can be your cheer leader if things look down. We all have at least one person who believes in us and that is the perfect person to share with.
So the point of all this? Simple really challenge yourself this new year don't make a resolution that you will forget about or abandon by the end of the week/month. Make a SMART goal for the year. Find one that is a difficult but attainable with effort and hard work make it a goal then do it.
Want a real challenge think about this and post a comment here with your goal for next year and your plan to accomplish it. While not my only goal the one I am willing to share publicly is lose 60 pounds by the end of next year. My plan is 5 pounds per month. To help support this I commit to walk a mile at least 3 times a week and balance my diet to make sure I eat better.
So what is your goal?
