Ditch New Year resolutions and embrace goals

When the New Year rolls around, do you start to think about your resolutions? But – how often do you stick to them? Resolutions can create unnecessary pressure and make us feel demotivated when we don’t stick to them! Saying that knowing what you want out of the year can be incredibly useful. So, what’s the answer? Set goals.

Here’s how in 5 easy steps.

1. Write down your top three goals for 2019. Let’s say one of your goals is to: Find a new job.
2. Under each goal, create micro-goals. For example, if you’re main goal is to find a new job.
   Your micro goals might be:

• Job hunting online
• Update resume
• Call recruiter

1. For each micro goal, schedule in time. For example, you could have: Job hunting online – ten minutes every day.
2. Set a timeframe for your main goal. For example, ‘Find a new job by March 2019.’ If you don’t meet the timeframe, don’t worry! Re-visit your goal and consider what else you need to do to get there.
3. Place your goals up on the wall (or somewhere you will see them regularly). This will help you stay focused and remind you to carry out your micro-goals throughout the year.

You’re far more likely to reach your goals if you have planned out how you are going to get there, rather than simply announcing what you wish for on New Year’s Day.