2018 is officially the past and 2019 has arrived!  Many will ambitiously set new year resolutions and attacking them with gusto; some will set the classic resolutions of  improving  finances, health, clutter or even relationships. So many will start off strong but unfortunately will lose momentum somewhere along the way and revert back to those habits that we vowed we would change on January 1 and falling into the trap of procrastination and uttering the phrase “next year I will_________________( you fill in the blank).

I’m not sure when I stopped making New Year resolutions because  I started to feel that I was setting myself up for failure. To announce a resolution on a date that the world has deemed a day to “reset” yourself  and establish life changing goals. I’m learning to set goals throughout the year and celebrate the little wins along the way. As I continue to set and achieve my personal goals, I will share with you what I find helpful in achieving them.

Look at the whole picture.

No matter the goal you have set, first look at the whole picture: the  who, what, when and why of the goal you have set; then attack the how, make a plan that is ambitious but realistic and celebrate the mini victories along the way.

If financial stability is your goal, first look at where every dollar is coming from and going. Create a spreadsheet of your finances or try apps such as Mint or Everydollar to help your financial focus.

You’ve set a goal to work on you health. Get a physical so you know where you stand with your numbers in regards to blood pressure, cholesterol, hormone levels, weight etc.  A journey starts with the first step of knowing what direction your headed.

Your goal is to strengthen your relationships with friends, family or spouses, start with self reflection, write in a reflective or inspirational journal map out your feelings and what you want to achieve in your relations.

Whatever goal you have set, you first need to be honest with yourself, yes it is cliché but you know I’m speaking the truth. I have also found that having  God involved in all aspects of my life will give you peace while you are achieving your goals. Accomplishing goals just doesn’t magically happen it takes planning, faith, accountability  and endurance. Below tid-bits of advice that I find to be very helpful

Education and tools.

Your goal(s) are set but you need a strong foundation and education is key. There is so much information out there from books to websites and videos strikes of the keyboard

away. Last year I started the goal to work on my finance. I found  Dave Ramsey’s book “Total money make over” an essential tool. It basically has  a blueprint on how to start saving money and getting out of debt.  Now as a former educator, I know books are not enough, so people need visuals, charts graphs etc. I personally found apps that show me progress are extremely motivating and get me excited about reaching the next level of my goal.

There are some many “blueprint” books out there that can help you be successful. You want to change you eating habits, try “Whole30”, the program is designed to

make you look at your foods and how  body responds. What ever your goal is  there is literature out there to get you started and educate you on a path way of success.

“The Happiness Project” is great book that I personally enjoy because  it has challenged me to look at different aspects of my life and relationships  from different perspectives. There are journal exercises that poses questions that make you think out side of the box.

Emotional Support & Advice

Some days are going to be harder than other and you’ll need a cheerleader to help you get you through those thoughts of doubt and confusion. For this you’ll need the influence of people who are where you want be. You want financial stability, talk to people who have their finances in order,  they’ll have some insights that may help you achieve your goals. Health and fitness, surround yourself around individuals who are crushing it, they eat healthy, they are active. Exercise and clean eating are two of the greatest medications out there. Avoid people who are  quick to give advice but don’t live by their own principles; this will on infuriate and discourage you. Our families can be our biggest supporters but they also can be our biggest enablers. I have my greatest support from friends and others who are distant from the situation and hence have a more neutral perspective and can give more sound advice.

Write it Down

We live in a digital world and it is great for so many things like reminders for meetings and doctors appointments. But there is something to be said about pen and paper, for me seeing it written out on a calendar or journal, almost as a contract between yourself and your goal. It is such a satisfying feeling to see goals being check off. Writing things down  gives you an idea where you are emotionally and how much you have achieved in relation to your goals. I personally feel that now that it is written down, it is no longer a thought swimming around; it is now the first step in your many steps to greatness.

Whatever your personal goal is remember this:

  Education and a strong foundation are key in achieving your goals.

  Write and plan your goals down.

  Celebrate the mini wins along your journey; it is great motivation for perseverance.

  Surround yourself with like minded individuals

Have faith in yourself and with God all things  is possible.

Happy New Year!