It is that time of year again when we reflect on the past year, think about what we wish we would have done differently, remember those accomplishments that went well and ponder the ever, elusive New Year’s goals! Is this one of those myths that will just always elude us or can we really follow through and make them happen? If you are like me, although they do seem elusive, I am determined this year to do it differently, to find a way to not give up, to finally turn it from a goal into a success story! I know, you must be thinking that I am just like everyone else this time of year! However, rather than just randomly throwing out the idea of working out more, staying on a budget, finding more time for family or the countless other goals, this year, let’s look at five ways that will take this from frustration to elation and take control of our goals! The easy part is thinking of all the things that we want to do in the New Year! We are constantly being hit on TV, the Internet and the media with how we can improve ourselves. So often though, what seems so clear in our thinking one day seems to drift away with time. The first step then is to write it down and not just in general terms but with a specific plan. If you want to lose weight, write down specifically how much weight, what days you are going to work out, and how you are going to change your diet. If it is about finances, then find a course or seminar you can take to give you tools that are proven, set time aside to use these tools right now and use resources at your bank or online to help you save in an emergency fund so you have some cushion. If our goals just stay in our head or they are too general, they will disappear from the radar screen very fast. When we make it specific, we then feel like there is an actual way to make it happen!
2. Have Visual Reminders & Accountability:
Now that you have it written down, put it in places on 3x5 cards that will remind you of your plan. Some helpful places are the bathroom mirror, the refrigerator, dashboard of your car, or on your desk at work. By having these visual reminders, it will assist you in staying focused and on target. One other thing that can make a difference is sharing your goals and specific plan with a friend or family member that will hold you accountable. Now, it is not their job to make this goal a reality, but they can be there to encourage and challenge you along the way, especially when it seems too tough or you hit a time where you could get distracted. Keep in mind, this will be someone that you are empowering with personal goals in your life, so be willing to listen, ensure that they will be consistent and offer to be there for them as well so it is mutual accountability!
3. Create a New Path:
We got where we are in life because we took specific steps. Sometimes it is hard to see that in the moment, but when we look back, we can see where we got off course and how we ended up where we are. Now, the plan is to create that new path that will lead to where you want to go! We use our GPS all the time to get us to all our activities, why not use that same method to get us to our New Year’s goals? If I want to see my marriage improve, what path can I take for that to happen? How about dating again, finding those things that you did when you were pursuing each other and do them all over again…love notes, special dates, sunsets, etc.! If we stay on the same path we are on now, we will end up with the same results! Whatever you are trying to accomplish, put down three specific things you are willing to do and then walk down that path for 90 days and see what a huge difference there is!
4. Schedule Check-in Dates:
Ok, you have your specific plan, you found accountability partners, and you have written it down and put it where you can see it so you are on your new path! Now it is time to schedule “check-in” dates so you can measure your accomplishments and possibly readjust your plan. At first, you may want them to be every few weeks so you stay focused and don’t get discouraged. Then maybe they can be monthly so you build consistency. If we don’t have these check-ins, it will be too easy to give up or lose focus. Do these with your accountability partner, write down your progress and also any changes that you want to make and then set up your next check-in date and you will be amazed at your progress and how you stick to your goals!
5. CELEBRATE!
It does not matter how small the accomplishment is, be sure to take time to CELEBRATE your steps and accomplishments! This does not mean if you lose three pounds to go out and have an ice cream sundae, but maybe you give yourself a small treat. Too often, we focus on the negative and get down on ourselves and we forget to enjoy and make it fun! One more thing, plan something big for when you hit your goal! This will give you something to look forward to. By having small celebrations along the way and then a bigger one down the road, you will keep yourself in a positive frame of mind and making big deals out of your successes!
With a new year come new opportunities and new goals that can impact your life for years to come! We have a choice of continuing to do things as we have or we can be intentional about doing this year differently! Take the challenge! Follow these 5 steps with your New Year’s goals and see what a difference it will make! You will love it 6 months from now when you are able to share your successes with your friends and family, be an encouragement to them and feel so much better about the path you have created for yourself!
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About the Author: Relationship Expert, Janie Lacy, LMHC, NCC offers expert advice to Local and National TV News, Relationship Websites and provides phone or face-to-face counseling in the Orlando area. Janie has a relational approach and a unique ability to connect with individuals. Drawing upon her broad range of experience in private practice, not-for-profit organizations, hospitality and the medical industry, she has helped countless people in many arenas of life. She offers keen insight on all aspects of relationships – family, marriage, parenting, dating, and personal growth. Connect with Janie on Facebook or Twitter. 
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