Jumpstart your Goals: 5 tips for reaching your goals NOW
We've all been through it, the annual cycle of setting ambitious New Year's resolutions only to give up a week later…
Studies show a staggering 25% of us fall into this trap. CRAZY.
Despite this, we fall victim year after year to the allure of starting afresh in January.
I do it ALL the time and it always includes something like ‘get fit, get money’ … but if I leaned into those things all year round, then it would not need to be a NY resolution - you know?!
This idea that New Year's is the optimal time to revamp our lives, ditch unhealthy habits, and pick up new ones is deeply ingrained in us.
However, what if I told you this could be your biggest stumbling block to success?
Waiting for New Year's Eve is like waiting for a 'perfect time' - it's a myth. In reality, the best time to start any new goal is right NOW! It's not the date on the calendar but the commitment and persistence in your heart that matters.
Creating impactful goals doesn't have to hinge on the 'Big Bang' effect.
In fact, it's the small, steady changes that create a ripple effect, leading to significant results. Imagine, it's mid-November now.
If you start today, by the time the New Year chimes, you could be living a completely new lifestyle! Change begins today - and each step you take is a step closer towards your goals.
So here are some key tips to set achievable goals:
1. Create SMART goals
Try to make your goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART).
This technique keeps you grounded, ensures accountability, and tracks progress effectively.
E.g. Instead of “I want to get fit”
You could set a goal that is “I want to go to the gym 3x a week to help me get fit for the rest of November and December”
See the difference?
2. Break it down into smaller chunks
Large goals can be overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. Even the greatest feats are accomplished one step at a time.
This causes the Ripple Effect of starting small and letting it snowball.
E.g. If you want to get better with your money, start by looking in your bank account.
3. Write it down on paper
Sounds simple (maybe a little too simple) but writing down your goal not only serves as a tangible reminder, it also makes your goal seem more real, thus increasing commitment.
There is REAL power in getting it out of your head and out onto paper…
Even better if you can show or tell it to people and hold yourself accountable!
4. Make sure you frame your goal positively
Instead of saying "stop eating junk food," you would say "eat five servings of fruits and vegetables daily."
This shift from a negative to a positive mindset can make all the difference.
Instead of cutting out, you can introduce something new, fresh, and exciting.
If you want to be better with money, instead of “cut out spending on clothes”, you would say “be more mindful with my purchases”
5. Celebrate the wins
Each step forward, however small, is progress. Celebrate these small victories as it boosts motivation, breaks monotony, and creates momentum.
You deserve to celebrate yourself…
Obviously if your goal is to save £1,000 and you hit £100 saved, don't then go out and spend £50 because that defeats the point.
Celebrations can be in many different forms that do not include spending money!
Remember, setting goals is far more than a New Year tradition. It's a lifelong habit aiding personal and professional growth. Start today. Don't await perfection. Make progress, one goal at a time!
