Not surprisingly, New Year’s resolutions are top of mind this time of year. Many of us are setting goals around self-improvement, financial success and relationship. But merely setting the goal may not be enough. Before you embark on your journey to achieve your goal or goals, you need to clarify goal specifics. Following these 10 simple tips can help any New Year’s resolution stick!
#1: Clearly Define Your Goal
Your weight loss goal needs to be well-defined and given an assigned time frame. For example, having a generic weight loss aim isn’t as effective as articulating the goal to lose 45 pounds by March 1. The probability of achieving success increases when you hone in on a well-defined goal with a target end date. Making goals clear and specific helps you to achieve them.
#2: Make it Realistic
Make sure you set realistic intentions. Your goal should be challenging but also achievable. There’s nothing worse than setting yourself up for failure. If your goal is to lose weight, it should be one that gets you to a healthy weight for your body, disregarding futile hopes of resembling a supermodel or Hollywood superhero.
#3: Write it Down
Write down your goals and refer back to them often. Mount your goals somewhere you’ll see them on a regular basis like your bathroom mirror. “Out of sight, out of mind” really is true. Keep your goals top of mind!
#4: Make It Your Own
It might go without saying, but make sure that “your” goal is not someone else’s. Too many people get sidetracked by what others want for (or of) them. You have to really want the goal. If your husband wants you to lose weight but you feel perfectly content as you are, the likelihood of achieving the goal is much lower than if you want the change for yourself.
#5: Break it Down
Break down your big goal into several small goals. Each milestone or short-term goal will get you closer to your final mark, yet the process will feel less daunting. For example, if you have a goal to lose 30 pounds, attempt to lose the first 10 pounds by a certain date, the next 10 pounds by a later date and so on.
#6: Review It
Review your goals on a regular basis and monitor your progress. Praise yourself when you’re on track. If you happen to fall off, figure out what steps need to be taken to get moving in the right direction once again.
#7: Share It
Share your goals with others. Just telling someone else about your ambitions makes them seem more real and makes you feel more accountable. It may also help you garner support for your goals, which will make the challenging days feel easier.
#8: Adjust It
Be prepared to reevaluate your goals, and make minor adjustments as needed along the way. Also, try not to get caught up comparing yourself to others.
#9: Know Why It’s Important
Write down why it’s important for you to reach your goal. No matter the reasons for your goal, exploring the root of your desire and seeing the answers in black and white will help keep you motivated.
#10: Reward Yourself
Reward yourself for a job well done. If you have achieved your goal or are on the right track, celebrate yourself. Just make sure your reward is in line with your long-term goals. For example, if your goal is to lose weight, food may not be the best “prize”. Instead, reward yourself with a new pair of shoes or a smaller size pair of jeans, get your nails done, or buy yourself a new lipstick. It doesn’t matter how big or small the reward, just acknowledge your hard work and the achievement.
Whether you have a weight loss goal or other challenging goal you hope to achieve, following a few simple steps can help you achieve your goal with ease. What are your goals for 2014?
