As we transition into 2019 why not pause to reflect on the difference between resolutions and goals.

• The definition of a resolution is “a firm decision to do or not to do something”
• The definition of a goal is “the object of a person’s ambition or effort; an aim or desired result.  One of my mentors taught me to call goals “bite sized dreams”

We have all been tempted to make New Year’s resolutions. Rumour has it that 99% of resolutions have been discarded and forgotten by the 31st January and that only 3% of people write down their goals.

What makes goals different? Goals should never be mistaken for a long “to do list”. Imagine your goals are a delicious cake divided into 8 equal wedges.  Each wedge needs to be iced and decorated by you each month.

Step 1

Give the wedges names like my key relationships/friendships, my job/career, my health & physical well-being, spiritual growth, money matters, professional growth, personal growth/hobbies and exploring a new destination.

Step 2

Write YOUR goals down for each wedge. They have to be your dreams, not somebody else’s. Imagine how they will make you feel. Specify exactly how you intend to action them. Set a time frame for each one.

Goals need deadlines.
TIP: Be realistic.
Ask yourself questions like:
What exactly do I want to achieve?
Where?
How?
When?
With whom?

Step 3

Use the 4 1 1 formula (4 weeks, 1 month, 1 year) to hold yourself accountable. Set aside 30 minutes weekly to review your goals and see if you are on track

TIP:
Make sure you review your goals at the same time and on the same day each week. Set a reminder until it becomes a habit. Great habits will create a better you.

To wrap up:
Have a relationship with your goals and change them if necessary. Always remember that it’s not only about the goal, but who you will become on the way.