Happy new year! Today, as we think about the year ahead, we have a suggestion: do not set New Year’s resolutions. So many of us resolve to change our habits as the ball drops on New Year’s Eve, but so many of us fail. So, skip that step altogether and instead set achievable goals. Here’s how to set yourself up for success in 2014:
1. Don’t rush.
Although January always signals a fresh start, as Lara Casey of Southern Weddings always points out, there’s nothing special about the first of the year. Instead, take time to sit down and decide what it is you truly want to accomplish. If you’re ready to start working towards your goals on New Year’s Day, great! But if you’re not set until March, that’s fine too.
2. Focus on tangibility.
Setting a goal to spend more time with your sweetheart is great, but it’s not clear enough. Instead, decide on a weekly date night that works with both of your schedules. Then, choose a time and activity. Also, in order to achieve a goal you will likely need to set boundaries in order to accomplish it. Saying no to one thing means making more progress toward your goal, which will likely leave you feeling better in the end.
3. Take action.
Taking the first steps toward accomplishing your goal is always the most daunting. But just as you would break down the elements of your wedding into more manageable steps, you should create steps for your other goals too. If you’re not a runner, you likely won’t be able to run a half marathon tomorrow. However, you can research and find a program to use to help you train, set aside days each week to run, and sign up for a 5K that’s a few months away. Taking small steps will reward you with bigger progress in the end.
4. Partner up!
Accountability is always needed! Encourage your beloved, sister, or best friend to set goals too. Then check in with and encourage each other. If you’ve set some of the same goals, work together to accomplish them. Also, talk to others who have already accomplished what you’re hoping to do. They’ll likely have tips and tricks they’re happy to share.
5. Keep going.
As the old saying goes: your goals don’t work unless you do. You will likely face bumps in the road and moments when you feel as though you’re not making progress. When this happens, remind yourself of all that you have done, refocus, and keep going.
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