A new year is a time to start new, while re-evaluating aspects of our lives we may want to change. Unfortunately, many of us do not know the“what” or “how” to effect the change we want to make. Often times we either have unrealistic expectations that lead to not attaining goals or our goals are not specific enough.
Written goals work best. In the book “The Millionaire Next Door,” the author talked to many millionaires, to find that all of them had one thing in common - they wrote down goals. Goals should be specific, measurable, an attainable. They also need to be re-evaluated periodically. This process is time-consuming, but will keep you from doing away with them after a couple of months.
I don’t really like the term “New-Year’s Resolutions,” as it sets up an expectation in our mind that they only need to happen at the start f the New Year. It is much easier to stay with a goal that you have planned out for 6 months. If 6-month goals are not reachable for you, break the goal down into smaller goals, say 1 month or even 1 week goals. Maybe you start by going to the gym or just walking around the neighborhood three times per week.
I use exercise as an example because it is the “gold standard” to me in terms of improving mental health. When I used to run longer distances, I saw a sign at a race that said, “Some go to counseling, we run!” I truly get no other time when I can think of nothing and clear my mind totally than when I run. Think of it as a “reboot” for your brain. There are lots of reasons for this, but at a brain level, it is like taking anxiety or depression medicine without the side effects!
I hope you are able to reach your goals you set forth this year!
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