Instead of making resolutions for the New Year, you may choose to set goals. Goals are a little different because they may be a little more flexible than a resolution. With a resolution, you resolve to have a specific outcome. With goals, you can work toward creating an outcome a little at a time. Check out these tips for setting goals for the New Year.
How to Set Goals for the New Year
Be Realistic About What You Need to Accomplish
Put some serious thought into goals that you really need to accomplish during the coming year. Keep them realistic. Chances are you won’t earn or win a million dollars by the end of the year. A goal list is not a wish list — goals are things that you believe you can realistically accomplish. Some good goals that are realistic might be to save $200, or perhaps lose 20 pounds by the start of summer, or spend one day a week focused on your family. You might decide to make a goal of paying off your vehicle or paying down your mortgage.
Write Everything Down
It’s easy to have goals in your head, but they can be a little harder to work toward. Writing out your goals and your plans to achieve those goals can help you focus on a plan to make them happen. Putting everything in writing also helps you see your goals and get a better grasp on how to make them happen.
Set a Time Frame
Take your goal list and set a time frame for each goal. You might choose to save a specific amount of money each week throughout the year or you may choose to set aside a specific day each week to exercise or spend time with loved ones. Be sure to mark your goal dates on your planning calendar so you can keep your goals in sight.
Make Use of Technology
Use technology to help you with your goal planning. Use your email to set up automatic reminders and encouraging notes throughout the year so you can stay focused. Set alarms and reminders on your smartphone. Search the Internet for websites and apps that can help you set goals and time frames and keep you on track.
Write Yourself Notes
Use sticky notes to write yourself notes and encourage yourself. Stick the notes on pages in your planner or on random pages in books you plan to read throughout the year. Find places to hide notes so you will find them later and be encouraged.
Setting good goals for the coming year will help you improve your life. Make a plan and turn this coming year into the year in which you take control of your life and make it better.
What ideas do you have for how to set goals for the new year?
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