We’re several days into the New Year. How are those resolutions going? Messed up already? Well, instead of focusing on cliché New Year’s resolutions, how about doing something different this time around. Since this will be your best year yet, here are a few things you can implement when setting goals for this year.
1. Dear Future Self – Write a letter to the future you
Write a letter to the person you will be on January 1, 2019. In the letter, include goals you plan to accomplish in 2018, what you plan to change and enhance, and previous gains you plan to maintain. Write about where you are in life now and where/who you plan to be by next year. It will be cool and enlightening to read this letter in a year to see your growth and successes.
2. Goal Digging – Plan goals month-by-month
It’s good to plan big goals. However, it is important to break the larger goal into small goals that you can accomplish on a monthly basis. For example, if your goal is to lose weight, plan to start going to the gym a set number of times a week in January. Then in February, make your goal to eat healthier meals at home and not eat out. Add a new goal each month that contributes to the overall, larger goal. By the end of the year, you will have 12 months of measureable goals and accomplishments.
3. Bucket List – Make a list of mini goals
Keeping in line with the “smaller goals” idea presented in #2, make mini goals that are even smaller than the small goals. Create a bucket list of new things you want to try or do for the first time this year. There is a great big old world around us and there are many options for your bucket list. For example, visit a tourist spot in year own town that you have never been to. You could plan to try new foods of various ethnic backgrounds. Doing a quick online search for bucket list ideas well give you a wealth of options to choose from. Creating a bucket list will ensure that this year is filled with learning and new adventures.
4. Take Me Away – Plan out mini getaways
Yes, another “mini” suggestion. You’ll find that making several small goals will add up tremendously without making you feel overwhelmed. Speaking of not feeling overwhelmed, be sure to take mini getaways every now and then. You don’t even have to leave your house to accomplish this. Just taking time for yourself can serve as a mini getaway. Remove yourself from all of your daily responsibilities and take some time to be alone or do something you enjoy. Take a bubble bath or read a good book. Go get a massage or a fancy lunch. Whatever suits you, do it. Don’t neglect yourself while attending to family, friends, work, and other obligations. Maintain balance.
5. Perspective! – Maintain a positive mindset filled with gratitude
Your mindset is one of the biggest determining factors in how successful you are and will be. Train yourself to maintain a uplifting outlook and positive mindset. Avoid negative and self-deprecating thoughts as much as possible. Put a positive spin on things. For example, instead of just wanting to lose weight, strive to have a mindset about food that considers it to be a source of sustenance instead of just pleasure. Read self-help books that will empower you and help you learn tactics that will keep a mindset conducive for success. Most importantly, while you are working to towards personal gains, remember to be grateful for what you already have.
Cheers to 2018!