With the holidays always comes the challenge of setting New Year's resolutions. I know many folks don't enjoy doing this, but I find it rewarding. It's an opportunity to look at the past year and examine all of the highs and lows: Did I achieve what I wanted to? What do I need to work on? What can I do better?
I have four steps that I use to help me achieve my goals:
1. Have a specific goal.
Most of my clients have a target date for a race they want to participate in or to get in shape for the start of a movie (for example, Kurt Russell needed to get honed for his role in Soldier.) Specific goals give you a time frame to work with and provides the foundation for Step 2.
2. Make a plan.
Write down what you need to accomplish every day in order to realize your goal. For example, if you want to run a 10K race in 12 weeks, you should have a specific plan for how often and how long you need to run to prepare for the race.
3. Be consistent.
There will definitely be a time when you can't accomplish everything you've slated for that day. So if your goal was 45 minutes but you have time for only 20 minutes, then go for 20. A little bit every day goes a long way.
4. Be patient.
There will be times when your goal seems unattainable. This is when it's really important not to be too hard on yourself. Do what you can. Trust that you will achieve what you are shooting for.
Good luck with your goal setting and goal achieving. I hope you realize all of your dreams and aspirations in the coming year.
Happy New Year!
-- Greg Isaacs
