Hello 2017. It’s that time of year where you can wipe the slate clean and start fresh without punishing yourself for all the things you didn’t get done in 2016. This is the zero-guilt zone.
Like most people, you start off the year with so much motivation, so much hope, so much certainty that this is going to be the year when you lose weight, get organized, get your business off the ground, or fill-in-the-blank with your own.
Two weeks later, something happens. The excitement has worn off, life gets busy, and suddenly it seems like too much work (and time you don’t have), so you abandon (not intentionally, of course) your goals.
If this is you, you are not alone. Statistics show that by the second week in February, 80% of those good intentions have been forgotten.
I propose that we look at this differently.
- Put yourself first. No one is going to care as much about your goals as you do. Instead of treating your needs as something to abandon when everyone else’s priorities take over, build in ways that you can encourage and support yourself (the same way you would a friend who you’re cheering on.)
- Take baby steps. The idea that we have to do anything for a year to be considered successful is daunting. Instead, break the year into 90-day chunks. It’s a lot more manageable to work on losing 20 pounds in 3 months than 100 pounds by the end of the year.
- Set next action goals. Every big goal is a series of smaller goals. And, there’s no rule as to how small the goal can be. So, if your BHAG (big, hairy, audacious goal) is to organize your entire house, first focus on organizing a drawer. Once you’ve completed it, set another next action goal. That builds momentum and excitement as you reach them.
- Create a word/theme. Businesses have mission or value statements. Every decision, from a new product launch to the work culture is checked against this statement to make sure it aligns with the values. You can do the same thing. Choose a word that is going to be your theme for the year. It will serve as the barometer for everything you do, so make sure it’s one that resonates with you. My word is Intentionality, so my goals are all focused on being intentional. It really does change your perception when you feel more empowered about what you’ve set out to accomplish.
- Write them down. It’s been said before, but it works. There is something about putting our goals on paper that somehow makes them more real. Whether it’s the gentle reminder or the ability to track your progress, it’s one way to make sure you’re giving yourself the kudos you deserve for a job well done.
If you need help getting R.E.A.L (realistic, engaging, authentic, and long-lasting) results in 2017, let me know. I’d love to help cheer you on.
Thanks for sharing this space with me.