Happy New Year! Now is a great time to reflect on the past year. What went well? What could have gone better? Thinking about the year ahead, what steps can you take to make 2012 better than 2011?
Do you set goals at the beginning of January? Are you still working on them — or have you given up already? Those people who set realistic goals, and timeframes to work on them, are most likely to achieve them. Aim high enough to challenge yourself but not so much so that success is beyond reach. Also, the timing of goals can be a factor. You can have a great goal but, if the timing is not right, success is unlikely. If motivation is strong and the timing is right, you’re halfway there!
Here is an example. I planned to quit smoking sometime in 2008. On December 2 (2008) I made the decision to quit in two days to coincide with events happening at that time. So, on December 4 (2008) I quit and haven’t smoked since! At that moment my motivation was very strong. Motivation is critical to success when changing behaviors (like getting organized or losing weight). Recognize what goal-setting techniques work best for you and your personality.
(See Get Organized Month companion blog for tips on effective goal-setting.)
Quote of the Month
The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot. ~Michael Althsuler