As I write this, Christmas is coming to an end. As a child I used to hate this time but, as an adult, I have started to enjoy the time between Christmas and December 31st because it is a chance to catch my breath and focus on all that I have accomplished this past year. In addition, as we get closer to watching the ball drop and ringing in 2012, many begin to think of goals/resolutions for next year. I have to admit that I am not a big fan of making New Year Resolutions because many of them fail by February.
Photo © by Ryan Harvey
Don’t get me wrong, I think setting goals and having a plan are two of the biggest steps you can take to accomplish things you want to achieve but making a resolution because it is the thing to do this time of the year usually does not lead to success. Many people have great intentions but do not fully think out these New Year’s goals. We make a blanket statement such as “I will lose weight” or “I will handle money better this year” without having a true plan of attack. During January it is pretty easy to spend and eat less because most of us spent too much over the holidays and over ate and we are ready to make a change. However, once winter turns into spring, many stop sticking to this resolution and begin to act like they have in the past. In fact, many even feel they have deprived themselves and spend/eat more than they would have in the past and, thus, find themselves in a worse situation this time next year.
Like I mentioned, I think setting goals is a key ingredient in accomplishing something but you also have to have a specific plan to do this. For instance, instead of saying “I will handle money better” come up with specific actions that will help you accomplish this and keep you on track. You could say “I will save $100 this month” or “I will not buy coffee out this week.” These short-term goals will help you stay on track and reach your bigger goal.
In addition, many people just set goals at this time of year and overlook the other 11 months. A goal and plan can be set anytime during the year and not just in December. For instance, this spring, I decided I wanted to run a half-marathon. Instead of waiting until January to start preparing for this goal, I came up with a plan at that point to help me achieve this. I started my training in July (the middle of the calendar year) and did accomplish this goal! I am so glad that I went ahead and set a plan then instead of waiting until 2012 because who knows if I would have stuck to it.
As you start to plan for the next year, remember that you can set goals any month – it just doesn’t have to be in January. I hope that 2012 brings you peace and prosperity and God blesses all that you do. Happy New Year!
|
 |
Pingback: Thoughts on New Year Resolutions [Part 2]