The new year is on its way and it is time to prepare. Resolutions are good, but rarely are they kept. That is why it is important to set strategic goals to follow through with in the New Year so you will have a plan. Individuals who break down their goals into timelines and steps have a better chance of obtaining their goals.
Before you begin goal setting for the New Year, think about a theme or a word you want to represent 2025. We all have ideas of what we want our lives to look like, and it helps when setting goals if you have a vision in mind. When thinking about this word or theme for the New Year remember to set goals that aren’t so big that you will try to make too many changes at once. It is good to stagger your goals throughout the year to keep on track.
There are different methods of setting goals, most commonly the SMART Goal system. However, there are other ways you can map out your goals for success. You can map out your goals using who, what, when, where, why, and how.
Let’s look at how to map out your New Year’s goals using this method:
- What – What is your goal? What significance does it have in your life currently and in the future?
- Why – The why is the most important, you must know why you want to achieve your goal to keep moving forward. It is your motivation.
- Who – Who will your goals affect or who will need to be involved? For example, who do you need to contact, or will the goal you are setting affect your family, partner, or friends in some manner?
- When – When do you want to achieve this goal? What are your milestone timelines?
- Where – Where will this take place? Is it in your home, at work or does it involve travel?
- How – This is where you break down your goal into smaller pieces. Create tasks with deadlines. Think about your timeline and when you want to achieve these goals. Also, think about what you will need to achieve your goal. Will it be finances? Education? Making new habits or creating new connections?
Each goal should be separate when using this method. Breaking down your goals into bite-sized pieces and celebrating each milestone no matter how small can be motivating and will help you work towards your intended outcome. You are more likely to achieve a goal if you write it down and revisit your goal regularly.
Jennifer Bouley is a Career Development Practitioner located in St Stephen. She has a passion for helping others find wellness in their careers, while finding fulfilling jobs. She is the owner of Bliss + You Coaching. Jennifer can be reached at blissplusyou@gmail.com.