Creating Goals instead of Resolutions
Happy New Year! A new year is a great opportunity to create a fresh start by setting new goals and intentions for the new year. Setting new years resolutions is a norm in our culture, but something that is often done away with by mid-February. Resolutions are often accompanied by a wish or a hope to be different or do differently, but without clear direction and focus behind it. A resolution says, "I want to," while a goal says "I will." Setting goals that are clear and focused for 2018 is going to take you to the places and heights you want to go in your life. Goals can be personal, relational, professional, spiritual, social or physical. Create a goal for each category to create a whole-person change this year
There are FIVE components to creating solid goals.
1. Goals must be specific. Goals are not to be confused with desires, dreams, intentions or vision. An example of a specific professional goal might be, "My goal is to start a photography business photographing families and weddings."
2. Goals must be measurable. "My goal is to journal for 5 minutes everyday." This is a measurable and achievable goal.
3. Goals must have a time limit. If goals do not have a time limit then there is no motivation or urgency to meet the deadline you've created for yourself. "My goal is to increase profit in my business by 50% at the end of the year." The sense of urgency creates motivation instead of "I want to grow my business someday."
4. Goals must be in writing. This one may seem silly, but writing down or goals and putting it in a place we see everyday provides a reminder and motivation to reach that goal.
5. Goals must be realistic. This is an important point to end with because if a goal is not realistic you are not going to have the motivation to work on it because you will get overwhelmed.
The new year is also a great time to work on personal, family or relational issues that are keeping you stuck in the same negative cycle that might be driving you crazy. Counseling is a great way to get unstuck and get assistance in reaching those personal and relational goals. If you want to see if counseling would be a good fit for you this year give us a call we would be happy to assist you in the personal growth you desire.
Lets be the change we wish to see in the world this year. Create fun, functional and fantastic goals that will take you to new places in your personal life and relationships this year!
Happy New Year,
Chelsea
* Source Business Boutique by Christy Wright.
Encounter Counseling offers in-person counseling in Grand Junction and online counseling state-wide in Colorado including Denver, Boulder, Ft. Collins and Colorado Springs.
