Every January, people all across the world make New Year’s resolutions. They start out with good intentions and are excited to start the year right. Great! But after a few weeks, the novelty of the new year wears off, and a lot of people find themselves in a rut, losing interest, disheartened, and just plain give up.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. Setting goals is an excellent way to instigate change, motivate and energize yourself, and it builds your self-confidence. What do you want to accomplish, give up, or change in the next eleven months?
Maybe you want to get in shape and eat healthier. Perhaps you want to give up a bad habit. Or you might want to change something about your daily life that will make you happier.
Now is the perfect time to sit down and make a list of all you want to accomplish. Having a list of goals and priorities will help keep your objectives on track. Spend some time thinking about what you really want to do, then develop a plan.
As a writer, I set different goals for myself each year. My lists (and there are many!) change from week to week and month to month depending on my projects and ideas. One thing I always remind myself is: one step at a time. Remember, you can’t do everything all at once. The pyramids weren’t just stacked up overnight - things take time.
When you set goals, try not to overwhelm yourself with unrealistic expectations. One goal might be to completely de-clutter your house - that’s great! But don’t push yourself too far and try to do it in an afternoon. Set small goals for yourself at first, and as you accomplish them, cross them off your list and move on.
Every so often it’s nice to look back at your lists and see all that you’ve done. It gives you a sense of pride and encourages you when you know that you’ve made progress. So take ten or fifteen minutes to evaluate your goals. What did you accomplish last year that you’re most proud of? (Or, what didn’t you do that you’re determined to do this year?) What would you like to achieve this year? When you look back at 2017, what would you like to say that you’ve done?
After you’ve made the list, take note of what you need to do to get started. This could include setting aside an hour for yourself each day, joining a gym, or taking a class. Then, pick one goal (the most time-sensitive one, or your personal favorite), and get to work. Before you know it, you’ll be on your way!
When she’s not making lists, multi-published author Kelli Wilkins writes in several genres, including romance, horror, and non-fiction. To learn more about her writings, visit her website at: www.KelliWilkins.com.
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