The statistics on how many people make and comply with their New Year’s resolutions are quite painful. Studies have shown that less than 25% of people remain committed to their resolutions after only 30 days and only 8% comply with them. Don’t be part of this statistic. This year, set goals instead of resolutions.
Why goals?
This is simple, because the goals are specific, while the resolutions are usually broad and vague. Goals are much more actionable, which makes them more effective.
How can you turn your New Year’s resolutions into goals?
Clarify what you want to achieve, why it is important, and how you will do it. Take something broad, such as making more money next year, and break it down. How will you make more money? Will this be getting a promotion, changing jobs or starting a secondary business? What steps do you need to take? If you want to change jobs, you will need to start networking, update your resume, and plan your job search. Will you need to hire a coach to help you with these goals? What else do you need to do? Get as specific as possible and describe all the smallest steps you will need to take to achieve your full goal.
The more specific you get when it comes to breaking your goals, the more likely you are to achieve them. When they are divided into manageable and measurable pieces, you will be able to track your progress and stay focused. It’s easy to lose focus when the goal is too big and that’s precisely why only 8% of people comply with their New Year’s resolutions.
How can you make this happen?
Michael Johnston, founder and CEO of Zelo, offers some tips to help people achieve their goals. He recommends choosing three or four goals to work on, so don’t be fooled. Divide these goals into practical steps and check your progress daily and weekly. Schedule time each week to review your progress. An in-depth review or quick log can be done, even five minutes may be enough to keep you on track. Put this review time on your calendar to remind you to do so.
You want to turn work into your goals into a habit and something that becomes a natural part of your daily routine. Look for a system that works for you so you can easily follow the path. He also recommends prioritizing sleep and establishing good nutritional and exercise habits. When you are well rested and take care of your body, it is much easier to concentrate.
What else can you do to achieve your goals?
The real key here is consistency. If you only work on your goals sporadically, you won’t see results. Put the work and it will bear fruit. You may not see the results right away, but don’t let that deter you from continuing to work.
This year, if you need to set a New Year’s resolution, set it to set a goal.