So, How Are Those Resolutions Coming Along? January 27, 2011

Here it is, almost the end of January 2011.  I am cheering you on as you work on achieving your most important goals for the year. But after the first month are you still on track or have some of your goals already fallen by the wayside? We all know we need continuing motivation to stick with our goals. But with our busy lives we may not always take the steps we know will bring us success.

It’s easy to start the new year full of enthusiasm and optimism. But to maintain your momentum through the year, there are time-proven steps you must take to see them through fruition.

Are your goals powerful and crystal-clear?  Did you spend some serious “self-time” thinking about exactly what you really want out of this life?

Who do you want to be?
What do you want to experience?
What do you want to accomplish?
Are your business and personal goals in alignment?

A big obstacle for many people in achieving their goals is a lack of specificity.  Wanting a “new” car is very different from wanting a 2011, silver, Mercedes S class.  I’m reminded of the story of the car dealer who wished to be the owner of a foreign car dealership.  He woke up in China owning a Ford dealership. He immediately commented that what he meant was to be the owner of a successful Ferrari dealership in Los Angeles. Be careful what you wish for… better yet be mindful of the goals you set.

 The other side of the coin is recognizing exactly what you want, for example the Ferrari dealership in LA, but when you can’t immediately see how it will be possible you dismiss your desires as foolish and unattainable. Don’t sabotage yourself this way!  You wouldn’t (or shouldn’t) let anyone else stomp out your dreams. Please don’t do it to yourself.

Your brain is your biggest supporter. Paint a clear picture of what you want – and if you REALLY want it you will figure out how to get it; especially if you are willing to share your dreams with others. You might be surprised just how much support is out there for you and who you know that may be able to help you reach your goals. You have to ask yourself what you are willing to do to reach your goals. 

Try and establish goals that will give you a balanced life. Consider all the important areas of your life such as financial, career/business, leisure time, health/appearance, relationship and my favorite – personal growth to name a few. Don’t limit yourself but don’t overload yourself with unrealistic or unachievable goals either. 

I’ve said it before and I cannot say it enough – write them down! Remember to make them SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time Bound. Review them every day. Keep them in forefront of your mind.  Let’s face it, where you focus your thoughts your energy and actions are sure to follow. Remember to focus on what you want – not what you don’t want. There are numerous exercises you can complete in just a few short minutes every day to help keep you focused and on target and ultimately successful in reaching your goals and living the life you truly want.

One of my coach’s favorite questions is, “What is one thing you could do today to move toward the achievement of this goal?” If you don’t have a coach – ask yourself. Then write down your answers and take those actions. And you might want to spend a few minutes considering if you have the right people; friends, co-workers, mentors/advisors in your life to help you clarify, develop and implement your plan and keep you motivated and on task through completion. 

Here’s to your continued success and best year ever!