Happy 2024, dear readers!
We have jumped headfirst into the new year, and if U haven’t already, now is the time to set yourself up for success with a year filled with promise and potential. For many of us, the start of a new year is a time for reflection and forward-thinking, particularly when it comes to goal setting. But let’s be honest, how many of our 2024 resolutions have ALREADY fallen by the wayside…even before we hit February? This year, let’s change, once and for all. Let’s explore ways to set and GET our goals, so we’re not just wishing for them, but we’re actually achieving these milestones!
1. Get S.M.A.R.T.
By now I am sure U have heard of SMART goals, however, are U actually using this tool? This reliable method bears repeating. Make sure that your goals:
- Specific: Clarity is your friend. Instead of saying, “I want to grow my business this year,” say, “I will increase my client base by 25% by December 31st.”
- Measurable: How will U track your progress? It’s imperative to recognize what success looks like in tangible terms with clearly identified metrics.
- Achievable: Aim high AND remain realistic. Setting goals that are too lofty only leads to frustration and ultimately, giving up.
- Relevant: Evaluate your goals and be sure they align with your values and long-term objectives.
- Time-bound: Set specific deadlines to keep yourself accountable and on track. Again, clarity is key!
2. Get Out of Your Head
There’s something powerful and magical about putting pen to paper. Take the goals U have out of your head and write them down. Not only will this help in clarifying your goals, but it also serves as a continual reminder of what you’re striving to achieve. Keep your goals visible – a vision board in your office, a notepad on your fridge, a reminder in your daily planner, a pop up message on your computer, or even post-it notes on your bathroom mirror will work!
3. Remember How to Eat an Elephant
Large, lofty goals can feel overwhelming. Break them down into small, manageable, bite-sized tasks. If your goal is to write a book, start with outlining a chapter per week. That’s it. This approach makes your goals much less daunting and provides a clear path forward. On top of that, U will see and feel progress, and that’s half the battle!
4. Embrace Flexibility
Life is unpredictable. U never know what the day and week will bring. Be prepared to adjust your goals as circumstances change. Flexibility doesn’t mean giving up; it simply means adapting and staying committed to your end goal, even if the path to get there shifts, as it most certainly will. It’s life. Embrace it.
5. Celebrate Along the Way
Oftentimes we wait to celebrate only when we’ve hit the big goal. Why wait? Acknowledge and rejoice in the small victories along the way. These celebrations boost morale and keep U motivated, and that’s what ultimately leads U to achievement of your big goals!
6. Seek Accountability
Writing our goals down is part of the process, and sharing your goals with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor is the next evolution in significantly increasing your chances of sticking to your goals and achieving them. These individuals will be there to offer support, guidance, and a gentle nudge when needed. Choose these individuals with care, and let them know what kind of support U need and how much U appreciate their help!
7. Look Within…Regularly
Regular reflection is crucial in the goal-getting process. Are U on track? Do your goals still align with your overall vision? Has anything changed internally or externally since U originally crafted these goals? This reflection time isn’t about being hard on yourself; it’s about staying true to your journey and making necessary adjustments along the way. Sometimes we need to alter the direction of our sails…and that’s okay.
8. Your Mindset Matters…a LOT!
Finally, it’s imperative…and I can’t stress this one enough…that U nurture a PURPOSEFUL mindset. This isn’t about toxic positivity, it’s about becoming aware of the thoughts U think. Moving your mindset to come from a place of belief and strength. Believe in your ability to achieve these goals. Visualize your success. Use affirmations to keep your spirits high. Know that while the journey may feel long and arduous at times, the end result will be SO worthwhile!
As we journey through 2024, remember that goal setting is not just about reaching a destination. It’s so much bigger than that. True goal achievement is about personal growth, expanded learning, and self-discovery. May this year bring U closer to your dreams, day by day, step by step, goal by goal. Here’s to U and a year of achievements, big and small! And remember, if U REALLY want this, U WILL achieve it. U got this, dear reader…now go get it!