Setting Goals for the New Year
01/30/08
Jessica Johnston, VP, Client Relations

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The clock struck midnight and what did most of us do, continued eating and drinking our way into 2008! It is funny how much pressure is put on us to set "New Year's Resolutions." However if you are like me, you end up finding an excuse to break them in the first week. Whether it's, "I'm too tired to go to the gym today" or "That was unrealistic to think I would be able to read every night," we tend to find more reasons why we shouldn't do something than why we should.

As I get older (Ok, I know 26 isn't old, but I am a married woman now!), there are certain things I am learning which help me set goals for myself, and not just around the New Year. I'd like to share these with you and please let me know if you have any others that will help me achieve my goals. I am always seeking good advice!

1. Reward yourself - My husband may think I do this a little too much, but I am a firm believer in rewarding yourself when you have achieved a goal. It gives you the incentive to keep going.
   
   
2. Don't Beat Yourself Up - One thing I have realized about myself is that I tend to make a mountain out of a mole hill when it comes to messing up. Tomorrow is a new day and we should focus on everything we CAN do today instead of everything we regret doing yesterday.
   
   
3. Find an Accountability Partner - I first heard the term "accountability partner" when I started taking a professional development class. Looking back, I guess I have always had one of these. Although, I didn't realize at the time that was what my parents were! An accountability partner is someone who can help you achieve your goals. Whether it is a friend who will go to the gym with you or a coworker who makes sure you are taking care of yourself during the day, they help you achieve your goals. And usually they celebrate with you when you do!
   
   
4. Finally, Evaluate Your Goals Often - I have a good friend who is always encouraging me to do this. She has made me realize that it is ok to change your goal or even cut it out of your life all together. Being determined to achieve something is a wonderful quality, but not if it is at the expense of you or someone you love. Our lives are constantly changing, so it is only fitting that our goals would be too!