Last January, I wrote about the importance of writing down goals. Research has shown that people who write down their goals are much more successful at achieving them. This year, as we look to 2011, think about what you'd like to create in your life. Take the time to really consider what you would like to change and write down your goals, and the steps you will take to meet them. Try using this worksheet to put together realistic, achievable, and meaningful resolutions for the coming year.
INVENTORY
Goals I hope to achieve in the coming year (work, relationships, health...)
1.
2.
3.
Behaviors that have caused problems for me in the past (e.g., excessive drinking, yelling/fighting)
1.
2.
3.
Attitudes that have caused problems for me in the past (e.g., jealousy, impatience, unrealistic expectations)
1.
2.
3.
RESOLUTIONS
From the list above, choose the most important items. Try to limit yourself to just three. Keep them realistic. Start with something you know you can do. Remember that pledging to work on something may be more doable than resolving to get it done (that is, try "Look for a better job" rather than "Find a better job").
Resolution #1:
Resolution #2:
Resolution #3:
STEPS
Great, you've got resolutions. Next, think about how to actually get these goals accomplished. What are the steps? For example, if you want to start exercising more, steps might include "Get running shoes out of the closet," "Set alarm earlier to make time for exercise," "Run a little every day." Again, keep it grounded in reality - try to list steps that you know you can actually get done.
Resolution #1: _____________________________________________
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Resolution #2: _____________________________________________
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Resolution #3: _____________________________________________
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Finally, think of someone you'd be comfortable reading this worksheet to. Reading the resolutions and steps out loud can be a big help. If you can't think of anyone, try reading them out loud to yourself or feel free to share them with me.
I wish you all the best in 2011!
Happy New Year!
Kristen
