The year is almost half over — yet many New Year’s resolutions may be languishing. To turn dreams into reality…
Consider the time frame. If we concentrate on day-to-day tasks, we can’t see the big picture — yet if we focus only on grand long-term goals, we won’t know what to do next.
- Smart move: Categorize each resolution either as an immediate goal you can meet this week (scheduling that overdue mammogram)… a short-term goal for the next few months (losing five pounds)… or a long-term plan worthy of an epitaph (founding your town’s “live green” movement).
Pare your list. At any given time, concentrate on no more than three immediate goals, two short-term goals and one long-term goal.
- Smart move: Part of getting what you want is making sure you still want it. If you regret not getting your degree, take a course at a local college. But if you’ve already built an intellectually stimulating life, perhaps the degree is no longer relevant.
Develop a step-by-step plan. Research the precise actions that will move you toward each goal.
- Smart move: Instead of resolving to “get healthier,” for instance, vow to “reduce blood pressure by limiting salt to 2,400 mg per day and doing stress-reducing meditation each morning.” Being specific is key.
