Making Smart New Year’s Resolutions
Posted on February 11, 2011 by Karla Turcotte, One of Thousands of Life Coaches on Noomii.
How to set goals that are specific and will make it easier to achieve
Many years again I stopped making new year resolutions because I was not successful at making them happen. Most of the resolutions that I was making at the time looked something like this:
- I should lose weight
- I should get back in shape
- I should study harder
These types of resolutions are vague and often fall in the category of “should”. Let me explain the “should” category. For me, anytime I use the word “should”, it usually is about doing things that I feel others expect of me. It is, for the most part, not something that I want to do for myself.
Nowadays, when I make a new year resolution, I make sure that it is a SMART goal:
SMART stands for:
S – Specific and measurable: What is it that you want to achieve with this goal? Is it specific, observable and measurable?
M – Motivating: Why is this goal important for you? Will it make a difference for you if you achieve this goal?
A – Attainable: Is it possible to achieve this goal? Is it a stretch for you ?
R – Relevant: Is it something that you want to achieve and that will make a difference for you?
T – Trackable and time-bound: Can you track your progress toward achieving your goal? Did you include a timeline or a date for completing this goal? How will you be accountable for this goal?
Here is an example of a SMART goal :
“I want to write a book on “Reclaiming/Reconnecting with Your Passion” that is at least 200 pages long and get it completed by September 1st, 2011. I will write at least 2 pages every weekday until I complete the book.”
By using SMART goals, I am setting myself up for success. This goal is specific to what I want to achieve. It can also be measured by the number of pages that I write and has a timeline included.
Setting goals is energizing for people when it is done correctly. It also helps to setting yourself up for success by including specific information that makes it possible to track and measure.
For anyone wanting more information on SMART goal setting, please see the “Sticking to your New Year’s Resolutions” in the “Recommended Resources” section.
I also encourage people to share their resolution with friends and family. Firstly, because these people can support you in achieving your goals. Secondly, these people will also keep you accountable by asking you how are you doing with this resolution.
So, what will your SMART resolutions be for 2011?
Written by Karla Turcotte – Carpe Diem Coaching – www.karlaturcotte.com – (905) 696-6866
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