New Year's Day, like many holidays, is somewhat of an illusion that we play on ourselves. Time doesn't really start over each year on January 1st, just our calendar, our way of marking time. Yet somehow we feel like we have a clean slate on January 1st, and try to begin anew with things we were unable to achieve the year before. Whatever the case, I think goals are a good thing any time of year. Whether you start them now or in October, setting goals is the first step toward achieving them.

Given this idea, did you make your new year’s resolutions yet? If you did, take a look at them, how many are the same as last year?

1. Get in shape.
2. Lose 10 lbs.
3. Spend more time with my kids.

For many of us this list is very familiar.Year after year we start off with high hopes of staying on the right track. Then by March (or sooner) we find ourselves mired in the same entanglements we had last year: too much to do, not enough time. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. This happens to everyone. Life is a busy, constantly-changing experience that requires everything we have just to keep up. Getting ahead requires planning and strategy beyond high-hopes and well-meaning intentions. Here are a few tips to set achievable goals and resolutions, and stay on track.

To be achievable a goal must be:

1. Measurable.
If a goal does not have a measurable, quantifiable aspect to it, how will you ever know that you have achieved it? Take #1 on the list for example. “Get in shape.” How will you know that you are “in shape”? When can you step back and check that off your list? You must quantify it by a measurable term such as: when I can wear a size 6 again, or I can run 5 miles, or I can bench press 120, or my body fat is ___ %.

2. Realistic.
As a coach, I’ll be the first person to cheer you on in almost any endeavor. I’ll also be the first person to help you learn from the experience if you have set unrealistic goals. Set your sights high, but be realistic about the mental, physical, and emotional assets you have to help you reach your goal. There is much to be learned from the old fable about the tortoise and the hare.

3. Planned.
You can’t expect to win if you don’t have a game plan. Take #2 for example. “Lose 10 lbs.” It won’t happen unless you break down the goal into achievable steps. Are you going to use diet, exercise, or both? Set an accomplishment date. Break down the goal into pieces to accomplish each week. Set daily actions to meet your weekly goals.

If you remember these three key aspects when setting your goals, you will likely be able to stick to your resolutions and set new ones next year. Of course, if you need an extra push, hire a coach who will help you strategize, cheer you on, and light a fire under you when you need it.

Best wishes in 2002. May all your dreams come true.

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© Andrea O'Neill, 2001 The intellectual property contained in this document is the sole property of the author. You may forward this to anyone you wish in its full and complete form, using the PDF download in the left sidebar. No portions of this newsletter may be reproduced without the sole permission of the author.