It’s a brand New Year and with it comes the opportunity to improve your life and to achieve new things.  But all too often New Year resolutions fall flat before the end of January and then the year ticks on and before you know it it’s December again.

Here are some tips to help you create New Year resolutions which will last beyond January and even allow you to actually achieve those much-dreamed of goals.

The trick is to set specific goals. You’ve probably heard of S.M.A.R.T. goals – they are not only effective in business but can also be applied to your personal goals.  They are designed to provide structure and guidance which will allow you better identify with what you want to accomplish. Originally published by a consultant, George T. Doran in 1981.

S – SPECIFIC

Be specific in what you wish to achieve. What is the end-result that you desire? For example if your goal is to lose weight, stipulate your ideal weight and create a realistic calendar which will get you there by a specific date.

M – MEASURABLE

What metrics will you use to measure your goal? Again, if your goal is to lose weight then the metric would be weight loss in Kilograms.

A – ACHIEVABLE

How will you achieve this goal? Do you have the tools needed to reach that?  If not, then how will you go about getting the tools you need?  In our weight loss example, you may need to join a gym or at least ensure that you can free your day at a specific time to go for a walk or to exercise.

R – RELEVANT

Is this goal relevant to you and your lifestyle?

T – TIME BASED

Anyone can set goals, but if it lacks realistic timing, the chances are that you’re not going to succeed. By setting an end date this will make you accountable and will allow you to plan the realistic milestones.  Plot out what you need to achieve by each milestone and track your progress to ensure that you stay on track.

Tips to keep you focused

Here are some tips to keep you focused

  • Start small – set smaller, more frequent and more realistic goals. Do more of that instead of setting 1 huge daunting goal. Smaller victories along the way will make the journey easier.
  • Focus on 1 or 2 achievable goals at a time – you don’t have to do it all at once. Prioritise and work accordingly.
  • Don’t beat yourself up – if you stumble, dust yourself off and keep going. Consistency is more realistic than perfection.
  • Write down your goals and put them where you can see them often i.e on your fridge or on your mobile phone’s home screen.
  • Read them daily – preferably first thing in the morning. Some experts say it’s ideal to visit them first thing in the morning and last thing at night but if this is not possible find a system that works for you and do it daily.
  • Track your progress – if possible track your progress daily or at least weekly to ensure that you are on track. Revisit this monthly to show your progress so far.
  • Talk about it – tell your family and friends about your goal. This way they will be more supportive when you refuse that second helping.
  • Reward your progress – use your milestones to reward yourself and keep you motivated. Buy those shoes you wanted or go away for that weekend away but keep your eye on the end result.

Conclusion

You can do this! Even the most daunting journey starts with a first step.  Make this your best year yet.

This is a summary of S.M.A.R.T. goals – for a more comprehensive article you can visit https://www.smartsheet.com/blog/essential-guide-writing-smart-goals