Don’t Be Shy

I like New Year resolutions.  There is something about the first of the year, the ideal of a clean slate to start the year.  With a brand new year ahead what is it you will do to make sure it’s the best ever.    Setting New Year resolutions reminds me that I can take active steps to improve my life.     Of course you can set resolutions or goals that aim to improve your life at any time; your birthday, the start of spring, Monday, or right now.  But sometimes the start of a new year, gives us a new sense of hope and adventure.

Making goals that work.

If you like to set resolutions here are three easy tips to help ensure you stick to them and change your life for the better:

1. Set a specific goal.
General statements won’t produce nearly the same level of success that a specific goal will.  For example, one of my resolutions this year is to read at least 12 books.  Notice the goal isn’t to just ‘read more’.  I actually read a lot already, but it seems to have gone from novels, to papers, magazines and blogs etc.  I plan to set out to read 12 good novels this year.  I already have the first couple picked out. 
2. Make a plan.
That rush of motivation you feel on the first few days of the New Year doesn’t usually take long to fade.  If you haven’t made some sort of a plan your new year’s resolutions often leave with that motivation.   Making a plan also has the benefit of showing you how realistic the goals are. 
3. Don’t make too many resolutions.
I find sticking to one or two resolutions works best.  Trying to change 10 things in your life is too much.   I also try to have only one ‘big’ resolution and one smaller one increases your success rate.  And if you find one resolution or goal reached, acknowledge your achievements and move on to the next goal.
 
Remember the start of a New Year is a great time to set yourself some goals, though goal setting and planning does not need to be reserved for the New Year.    Making goals specific with a plan and keeping focus on one goal at a time can really help you achieve your resolutions.

Oh and Happy New Year!