toss the resolutions

Toss the Resolutions and Set Some Goals

It’s the new year, so everyone’s jumping on the resolution bandwagon. It’s time to make some big changes, right?!

But I, for one, won’t be setting any new year’s resolutions to make those changes.

A resolution is a decision to make a change, but it usually comes without the action plan to get there. I’m all for making big things happen, but unless you know how you’re going to get there (and when), you’re setting yourself up for failure.

Common resolutions include: get healthy, eat better, read more, be kinder to my loved ones, stop drinking, quit smoking, get organized… The list goes on. The common factor in all of these is that there is no way to measure them. There’s no way to know when you’ve been successful.

In general, I always try to be better tomorrow than I am today. That’s the way I live my life. But when I’m trying to make a real change, I set SMART goals.

SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-sensitive. For example, if you want to lose weight, set a target and a plan. I want to lose 10 pounds is a good goal to aim for, but it’s not a SMART goal. Here’s how to tweak it:

Specific – Lose 10 pounds

Measurable – It’s very easy to step on the scale and determine if you’ve lost 10 pounds, so it’s already measurable.

Achievable –  Most people can achieve this weight loss goal, unless there are circumstances that prevent them from exercising or doing the work it takes. Unless you’re already at a healthy weight, 10 pounds is achievable.

Realistic – While losing 10 pounds might be a challenge, it’s totally realistic for most people, especially in a realistic timeframe.

Time-sensitive – Put a time limit on your goal. Maybe you have an event coming up and want to lose a few pounds before that event.

I want to lose 10 pounds by March 1.

Now decide how you’re going to get there. Cut out sugar and alcohol? Commit to a program? Stick with the eating plan? A combination of all of these will get you where you want to be.

How Can I Help You?

Start fresh this new year and set realistic goals that you’ll achieve. Be sure to write your goals down and let me know what they are. Accountability is one of the best ways to make sure you reach them!

About Lee

I am a 44-year old married mom of 4. I love my family. If you’re a mom, then you know kids and a spouse keep you busy. It’s easy to forget yourself in the process of taking care of your family. My mission is to help other moms take care of themselves so they can be more available to their loved ones and lead more fulfilling lives.