Have you ever noticed with every new computer; you get a manual, and a quick start guide? With the start of the New Year, I think this is the perfect opportunity to provide you with a quick start guide. Where you are, and where you're going? The first question you might want to ask yourself is, am I in a better place this year than I was last year? Are you better physically, emotionally, psychologically, spiritually, financially, and interpersonally? If all of these areas are giving you what you want, good for you and keep going! Chances are, there may be one or two areas you can improve. A balanced approach is beneficial in keeping your life and work on an ever-improving path. However, now is the time to identify those areas that have not progressed as much as you would like. So, let's make a more positive and significant difference by this time next year.
1. Recognize the more specific you become about what you want, the better chance you have in achieving it. General goals provide general success. However, specific goals call for specific actions to achieve them. Beware of meandering, and get specific!
2. Determine if the goal is a need, or a want. If it is a need, then it's a top priority. However if it's a want, it goes on the back burner for future planning. It's amazing how many people operate with confused priorities, where wants supersede needs.
3. Write down your goals in as much detail as you can. Describe what each goal will look like, sound like, and feel like when you have achieved it. The more realistic you can make it, the more likely you are to achieve it. The more you think about it, the more it becomes you!
4. Look at your resources. See if there are people, places, or things already at your disposal to assist you in accomplishing your goal. You may have more than you think!
5. Write a description of what you and your life will be like having achieved the goal. We often have an idea of what we want but fail to recognize the impact of achieving it. Writing a description provides you with an opportunity to anticipate the results, before putting in the effort to accomplishing something you may not want. This step can save you from investing energy and effort into something you don't really need or want.
6. Find a small group of people to support you in your goal. Make sure they are not competitors, or in any way threatened by your achievement. Meet with them monthly share your goals and support each other in achievement. Very few people have ever accomplished great things totally on their own.
If you know of any organizations or individuals that are struggling and could use our assistance, please forward this to them. You can also refer them directly, or provide us with their contact information and we will reach out to them. We will help you clarify your goals and remove the obstacles to achieving them!
All the best to you in the New Year!
Be well!
John
