New Year is the traditional time for setting goals. As we eagerly embrace the new year, armed with fresh hopes and aspirations, anything can seem possible. We conjure up visions of our ideal selves, achieving greatness and conquering the world. Ah, the optimism! But alas, as the year rolls on and reality sets in, these goals so often vanish into thin air, like the elusive unicorn of our ambitions.
Let’s rescue your goals from the clutches of oblivion and infuse them with a newfound vigor and sense of purpose. Are you ready to redefine your goals and embark on a journey of self-improvement?
Let go of perfectionism
Ah, perfectionism, the sneaky little critter that thrives on our insecurities and paralyzes our progress. It whispers in our ears, “If you can’t do it perfectly, why bother at all?” Well, it’s time to bid farewell to this insidious creature. Embrace the glorious imperfections of life and acknowledge that progress, no matter how small, is far superior to standing still. Remember, it’s better to stumble forward in pursuit of your goals than to remain frozen in fear of imperfection.
Ask yourself if you still want to achieve the goal
Ah, the beauty of self-reflection! Pause for a moment and ask yourself, “Do I still want to achieve this goal?” Our desires can change over time, and that’s perfectly okay. If the goal no longer ignites a spark within you, it may be time to bid it farewell and welcome new aspirations into your life. Let go of the goals that no longer serve you and make space for those that align with your current passions and dreams.
Consider your why
Behind every goal lies a purpose, a driving force that propels us forward. Take a moment to delve into the depths of your soul and unearth the underlying why behind your goals. What is it that truly motivates you? Is it the desire for personal growth, the yearning to make a difference, or perhaps the sheer joy of challenging yourself? Understanding your why will infuse your goals with a deeper meaning and keep you committed even when the going gets tough.
Get yourself a goal book
Now, my friend, it’s time to arm yourself with a trusty companion — a goal book. Find a notebook that speaks to your soul, be it a sleek leather-bound tome or a colorful explosion of creativity. This sacred book shall be your sanctuary, where you jot down your goals, dreams, and plans. Fill its pages with your aspirations, doodles, and the occasional heartwarming quote. Let it be a constant reminder of the journey you’ve embarked upon and the greatness that lies within your reach.
Revise your goals — SMART method
Ah, the art of revision! Like an experienced editor shaping a masterpiece, it’s time to refine your goals. Use the SMART method: make them Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Instead of “I want to be fit,” transform it into “I will run a marathon by October, improving my time by 10% every month.” By giving your goals a clear structure and timeline, you increase the likelihood of success and make them more tangible.
Set up mini goals
Rome wasn’t built in a day, my friend, and neither will your goals be achieved overnight. Break down your aspirations into bite-sized chunks — mini-goals that can be conquered one step at a time. Celebrate each small victory along the way, for it is these incremental achievements that pave the path to greatness. Remember, progress is progress, no matter how tiny the steps may seem.
Work out a timeline for the rest of the year
Ah, the dance of time! Picture yourself as a maestro orchestrating the symphony of your goals. Set up a timeline for the rest of the year, marking key milestones and deadlines. Embrace the rhythm of progress and keep your eyes on the prize. Be flexible, for life has a habit of throwing unexpected curveballs. Adjust your timeline as needed but remain committed to the destination.
Write a positive statement
Let your pen dance across the page as you craft a positive statement — a mantra that encapsulates your goal and evokes a sense of empowerment. Choose words that resonate with your spirit, infusing them with a dash of wit and charm. Let this statement become your rallying cry, echoing through the corridors of your mind, encouraging you to persevere even in the face of adversity.
Visualize your achievement and create a vision board
Ah, the power of visualization! Close your eyes and picture yourself basking in the glory of your achieved goal. Engage your senses — the sounds, the smells, the tastes, and the emotions. Create a vivid mental image that captures the essence of your triumph. Then, channel your inner artist and bring this vision to life through a tangible manifestation — a vision board. Let its colorful collage serve as a constant reminder of the future that awaits you.
Revisit your goals often
Goals, like gardens, require nurturing and attention. Make it a habit to revisit your goals frequently, like an old friend you cherish. Reflect on your progress, make adjustments if necessary, and celebrate how far you’ve come. Life is a journey, and your goals are the compass that guides you. Stay true to them, and they shall lead you to wondrous destinations.
Start today
Ah, the procrastination trap! Let us not be lured into its deceptive embrace. There is no time like the present to embark on your quest for greatness. Take that first step, no matter how small, and let the momentum carry you forward. Remember, my friend, that action is the catalyst that transforms dreams into reality. Seize this moment and let it be the beginning of your extraordinary journey.
Reward yourself
Ah, the sweet taste of success! As you progress on your journey, don’t forget to reward yourself along the way. Celebrate each milestone, no matter how seemingly insignificant. Treat yourself to a well-deserved indulgence — a fancy meal, a day of relaxation, or perhaps a new book to fuel your intellectual appetite. Reward yourself for the dedication and effort you’ve poured into your goals. You deserve it, my friend.
Bottom Line
The second half of the year stretches before you like a blank canvas, waiting to be adorned with the colors of your aspirations. As you redefine your goals, remember to let go of perfectionism, reflect on your desires, and infuse your journey with purpose. Arm yourself with a trusty goal book, refine your aspirations using the SMART method, and break them down into manageable mini-goals. Craft a timeline, write a positive statement, and visualize your achievement through a vision board. Revisit your goals often, embrace action, and savor the rewards along the way. With these friendly steps, you shall defy the clutches of oblivion and rise above the ordinary, creating a time filled with growth and fulfillment.
Share your favorite goal-setting tip or a humorous anecdote about your own struggles with New Year’s resolutions. We’d love to hear from you. Please feel free to leave a comment or reach out to me via Twitter or Facebook. At LexION Capital, our priority is to make our clients’ financial goals a reality by providing hands-on wealth management solutions, backed up by science-based insights into the financial industry. We help you maintain well-diversified investment plans. Should you need help in the aspect of financial growth, please visit my company’s website, LexION Capital.
Elle Kaplan is the founder and CEO of LexION Capital, a fiduciary wealth management firm in New York City serving everyone who feels left out by traditional “Wall Street”, including women and the families they love.
