January is often a time of reflection and
pondering. We think about the prior year and what we accomplished. We reflect
on the goals we achieved and the ones we ignored 11 months ago. Gyms are
bursting at the seams in January but often go back to a regular flow in late
February. Sometimes our goals can be difficult to achieve and to track.
Some people dislike "New Year's
Resolutions." I often hear the argument that January 1st is just another
day of the year. I think some dislike them because we have had such little
success with follow through in the past that we automatically think the setting
of goals is pointless. My view is somewhere in the middle. I believe that many
people set goals which are not realistic or achievable which defeats the
purpose. I would like to share with you what has worked for me.
Concept #1: Reduce the number of
goals you set.
I think the reason why many individuals
fade in their motivation to achieve their goals has to do with the concept of
multi-tasking. The human brain is not meant to multi-task. We are much more
efficient if we focus on one thing at a time. This is why we should not text
and drive! In my opinion, we are much more likely to achieve our goals if we
focus in on just a few of them.
Concept #2: Write them down.
A goal that is not written down is not a
goal. It's a wish or a thought. We need to write the goals down somewhere where
we see them often. I personally use the 'notes' app on my Iphone to track my
goals. Some like to post their goals on their bulletin board or in their
closet. Find what works for you. This allows you to track your progress and
remember what you are working on and trying to achieve.
Concept #3: Make them matter.
I like to really ponder and consider what
goals I want to work on. If the goal is superficial and constructed on the spur
of the moment, one is likely to lose motivation quickly. Typically I am able to
come up with a few things I really want to achieve or work on if I carefully
ponder my life.
Concept #4: Check them off.
I am a believer in the power of
checklists. Checking off an accomplishment brings feelings of satisfaction and
achievement. When I have accomplished a goal it feels good to check off the
goal and know that you truly did it.
My hope is we will all find a few goals
this year that really can make a difference in our lives. More importantly, I
hope we can formulate a good plan and stick with that plan until we have
accomplished our goal.
Matt Erickson, LCSW,
Clinical Director
Logan River Academy