3 Great Tips to Start 2022 off Right
New Years is around the corner. For many the new year is an opportunity for a fresh start or to continue building on the goals you previously set for yourself. As you go into the new year setting new goals or adding to your current ones, you want to be mindful of a few things to help you along your journey:
First, make sure the goal you are setting for yourself is a SMART goal. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-based. This can apply to almost every type of goal including weight loss, career, self-care, etc. For example, if your goal is to exercise more in the new year but your current exercise regimen is, getting up to walk to the refrigerator, then you may not want to set going to the gym seven times a week as your New Year's goal. A SMART goal may include something more realistic such as going to the local gym, twice a week, for 30 mins. From here you have already made changes to your daily habits and have started engaging in your goal!
Second, on your path towards your new year's resolution, you want to set goals that are aligned with your long term goals. Be strategic and focused, instead of creating so many goals it's hard for you to keep track. It's okay to prioritize goals, that way you will be able to focus your energy and actually accomplish your goals. One great method is to create small tasks that will bring you a step closer to accomplishing those goals. Setting tasks will allow you to monitor and have a better visual on the progress you're making towards those goals. It’s a rewarding feeling and will increase your motivation.
Keep in mind that accomplishing a goal can take time. See it as a marathon, not a sprint. You can set some really awesome goals but not take into consideration the barriers you may face along the way. Be patient with yourself. If you set a timeframe to complete the task and its not completed by that date, re-evaluate and set a new timeframe. Friends, this is not the same as procrastination.
Reflect on some of the barriers that have kept you from accomplishing your goals in the past. Did you find yourself often procrastinating, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, not believing in yourself, comparing yourself to others, focusing more on others than yourself? There are a number of factors that can stop you from accomplishing your goals. You want to take the time to reflect, re-evaluate, and make changes as you go into the new year. If you recognize that you may need support, consider talking to a therapist or someone you trust. There are many tools and resources available to help you along the way such as journaling, using a planner, or even getting an accountability buddy.
Lastly, remember to be kind to yourself as you begin the journey towards your New Year goals. You are human and challenges will come your way. Support yourself. Speak positive words to yourself when you are having a hard time. Don’t worry about “haters” or what anyone else is doing. Success takes time. If you have fallen off track, know that it is okay as long as you get back on track.
Happy goal setting!
