Don’t Make a Resolution, Set a S.M.A.R.T Goal
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We all know how it goes. We set our resolution, determined to finally do it this year and within in a few weeks we are back to our old habits. In fact about 88% of people who make a resolution never reach it. So what happens?
There are several reasons that we don't stick to our resolutions. We bite off more than we can chew, we don't really believe we can do and we know "what" not "why". For example, if you want to lose weight, it should be backed up by why you want to lose weight. Is it to be healthier, look better, set an example for your kids? They why will help motivate you. However, one of the biggest reasons resolutions fail is that we don't have a plan for success. Setting and reaching goals is much easier if they are S.M.A.R.T. It is an acronym that means specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time sensitive. Setting a SMART goal instead of a resolution gives you the best opportunity for success. Check it out...
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Specific
Being specific helps us clearly articulate what we want to accomplish. What exactly do you want to achieve? Saying you want to earn a certain amount per month is much more specific than saying you want to be rich. Deciding you want to lose 10 pounds is much more definite that saying you want to lose weight. The more specific your description, the bigger the chance you'll get what you want.
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Measurable
Your goals must be measurable. In other words there is usually a number involved - dollars, days, times per week, weight. When you create a goal that is measurable, it's easy to determine when you're getting closer or if you've reached your goal. Measurable goals offer concrete evidence of your success.
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Achievable
Your goal should be achievable. If you don't have any influence on the outcome, then it is not a goal, it is a dream. For instance, saying you want to win the lottery is not a goal, but wanting to run a 5k is something you can work toward. You should know why you want to achieve your goal and it should align with your values. Your goals should prompt you to take action. . To achieve success, you usually need to sacrifice or make changes and break bigger goals into smaller pieces.. You need to decide if you are willing to dedicate the time, effort and monetary investment.
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Relevant
Your goal should be relevant and important to you. It should align with your values. Ask yourself, do I really want this and why? Decide whether you are willing to sacrifice the time, effort and, sometimes, the monetary investment to reach your goal.
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Time Sensitive
A goal without a deadline is just a dream. Set a deadline to reach your ultimately goals and break it into smaller goals with a deadline for each of those. Saying "someday I want to..." will never get you there. There is no day in the week called "someday".