3 Simple Steps to Achieving Your Goals in 2019…and Beyond!

As the year comes to an end, many people will begin to look back and celebrate what they have accomplished in 2018.  This self-reflection also leads to many New Year’s Resolutions that some say are pointless to make.

Well, I disagree!

If you really want something, the best way to get it…is to set a goal and go after it!

Think about something YOU accomplished in 2018, whether big or small.  How did you accomplish it?  Most likely you started by setting a goal and then taking the necessary steps to reach your goal. 
 
The problem with most New Year’s Resolutions is that often they are merely a fleeting thought or words spoken and then forgotten.  While there isn’t anything wrong with thinking about what you want or verbalizing your goals, this doesn’t give a resolution enough structure or meaning…it’s simply not an effective way to set or accomplish any goal. 

The more specific and complete your goals are, the more likely you are to achieve them. 

For example, let’s say you decide “I want to go on a vacation”.  This is way too vague and therefore has no real meaning.  You’ll need to make a few more decisions and be more specific to create a meaningful goal to strive for.
 
Where do you want to go?  What time of year do prefer to travel?  Is someone going with you or are you going solo?  How much will it cost?  Can I afford it?

One of the more popular formats for effective goal setting is a S.M.A.R.T. Goal, which stands for:

• Specific – What, where, how, when, with whom and why?
• Measurable – How will you measure your progress or know if you’ve achieved your goal?  Write out the steps you need to take to reach your goal and check them off as you go.
• Attainable – Is your goal realistic and achievable?  At the same time, don’t be afraid to think big.  If you set out to double your annual salary in the next year, would you really be that upset if you only reach 1.8 times your salary?    
• Relevant – Is this goal relevant to YOU? Meaning is it something YOU actually want?
• Timely – Set a realistic timeline but remain flexible.  You may need to make some adjustments along the way.

One more thing…keep it POSITIVE!  Your goals should focus on what you WANT…not what you don’t want!

“I want to go to Jamaica with my husband and stay at a Sandals Resort for a full week in October 2019”…now that’s a goal!

Once you’ve set your goal, the next step is to determine what steps you need to take to make it happen.

Write it out, then start taking action! 

Get the time off work, make reservations for the resort and flights, find the passports, shop for a new bathing suit, pack your bags, arrange for any transportation to or from the airports, relax and enjoy!

Now it’s your turn…

• Step 1:  Create a S.M.A.R.T. Goal
• Step 2:  Create A Plan
• Step 3:  Take Consistent Action

​Whether it’s a New Year’s Resolution or something you feel inspired to do any other time of year, follow these 3 simple steps and before you know it, you’ll be celebrating the fact that “YOU DID IT”!

Here’s to a happy, healthy and prosperous 2019…and beyond!
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Cheers!