Goals > Resolutions
/“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow.”
A new year usually signals a shift in conversation. People of all walks of life reflect on the past year and consider the changes they want to see in themselves looking forward to the next. Many resolutions are made, but far too often they are quickly forgotten. I was no different until a few years ago when I began doing some thing different, I set goals. Leveraging my strategic management background, I set real goals -- S.M.A.R.T. goals. A SMART goal is:
- Specific - Resolutions fail because they are often vague meandering ideas, a true goal is clear, concisely expressed, and answers who, what, where, why, and how.
- Measurable - The only way to judge if a goal is met, is to set criteria so that it can be concretely measured.
- Achievable - Many resolutions fail because they are made way too big, goals on the other hand are realistic. Big ideas are fantastic but break them down into small pieces so that you can celebrate the wins along the way.
- Relevant - Good goals matter, picture where you want to be in a year, in 5 years or even 10. What are the first steps along that path?
- Time bound - As you consider your goals for the year break them down, quarterly or monthly so you can track your progress. It also acts as accountability if you see that there were 10 steps to a goal and you are only on step 2 when June rolls around.
I also make sure to set goals in each area of my life, setting goals that will help make me healthy, wealthy and wise I set forth initiatives in:
- Mind
- Body
- Spirit
- Finances
- Business
Completing this exercise has shown me the power in goals. Take a moment today to reflect on where you are and where you want to be. I would also love to hear what your goals are, please comment below or drop me a line through the contribute link up top!