Leap with SMART Goals

Don't make any resolutions that you really don't think you will keep.  So often we set resolutions because everyone else is setting them.  So we repeat what we hear.  We resolve to lose weight because Oprah or our coworkers are trying a new diet plan.  We go on a budget because Suzy Ormond thinks we should, you know how this works.  The trouble with this is that once we fail, we reinforce a failure mentality within ourselves, and it play back in our heads over and over like a bad song. 

If you really want to LEAP forward this year, take the time to get in touch with what you really want to accomplish, and then set SMART goals.

 SMART stands for specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timed.  Here are examples of how to set SMART goals:

Specific - this describes the target condition exactly.  If you wanted to increase sales, you would state how much of an increase you expected. For example: our goal is to increase sales by 15%.

Measurable - In order to know when you've arrived at your goal, you will have to know the starting and ending conditions.  Using the example above, you would state: "sales are at 100K; my goal is to increase sales to 115K".

Achievable - The goal should stretch you, but be within reach.  This provides the motivation that activates the brain chemistry necessary for accomplishment.  If you were to set a goal for a 100% increase in sales, you might not believe it was possible, and give up before you got started.

Realistic - You must have the skills, time and resources to accomplish the stated goal.  Increasing sales by 15% might be realistic if you have the product, marketing material, access to customers, and a reasonable amount of time for achievement.

Timed - Goals must include deadlines. Without a deadline, your goal is too vague, and will likely produce vague results.  A time frame provides the finish line, which motivates and drives action.  It allows you to know when you have arrived at the desired destination.

Then make your Goals SMARTER by planning to Evaluate your progress weekly and by Rewarding yourself for even the smallest accomplishment. 

Leap with Small Steps

Take a giant LEAP: There are times when a bigger step is needed.   Sometimes the fear of failing at something is so overwhelming that we can't seem to take that first step.  We've been so thoroughly warned to avoid taking risks and making mistakes that we're paralyzed into non action.  We stay in our velvet ruts while our hearts long to venture forward.  I found myself falling into that very trap once I realized that I had ten chapters of the book written and could easily pull the rest together.  I began to procrastinate, fearing that it was a dumb idea, that it wouldn't sell, not even a single copy.  Then I decided to take my own advice and LEAP!  You can do it too.  Whether it's a career move, a new skill, or a change in lifestyle that you are considering, make your plans and then put them in action.  The only difference between successful individuals and others is that successful people make plans and then take action!  You can do it, if you're willing to try!

"Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all" - Helen Keller

5 & 1/2 Ways to Enjoy January!

Winter Sport - ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, or tubing - take your pick!  Many ski resorts offer all of these options, and it is good clean family fun.  If being outdoors at this time of year isn't your cup of tea, you can always hang out in front of the lodge's fireplace.

Bowling - More family fun, especially if you can find a smoke free environment.  Some establishments offer night time specials, making it fun and affordable.  And it's good exercise!

An indoor picnic -  spread a blanket on the living room rug, make sandwiches or grill hotdogs and pretend it's summer.  Better yet, turn up the heat so that you can wear tank tops and shorts.  All the pleasures of a summer picnic without the ants!

Join a Book Club - in a good book club you canaugment your own reading with thought provoking discussion with others.   Try a book in a favorite category or opt for a something completely new.

Puzzles - crossword, jigsaw or word search puzzles will get your mind busy and help you pass those long winter nights.  Put on some soothing music and sip on something warm and fragrant.