So the time of year is nearing where people set their New Years Resolutions. The majority of people will set very broad goals like.
I’d like to make more money this year.
I’d like to lose weight.
I’d like to spend more time with family.
I’d like to read more.
I’ve been guilty of setting resolutions like that myself years ago. I’ve learned that this type of resolution never really gets accomplished. Resolutions (goals) need to have four traits to them: be tangible, be specific, be realistic, and have a time constraint. Instead of saying “I’d like to lose weight.” A more effective goal statement would be: “I’d like to lose one pound per week over the next six months by cutting out sodas and walking two miles per day.” See how that specificity changes your perception of the statement? You need a target to hit, or else you’re just shooting arrows into space.
Let’s take a moment to discuss learning style. People are basically one of three types of learners: visual, auditory, or kinesthetic. Visual learners have to see something done. In a classroom setting, visual learners would enjoy seeing diagrams, powerpoint slides, and the body language of an instructor. Auditory learners enjoy hearing a classroom lecture, and they have talk themselves through steps. Kinesthetic learners thrive in a hands on environment. They like to actively touch and feel the world around them, get their hands dirty so to speak.
So how does learning style translate to effective goal setting and achievement? Expose yourself to each one of these learning styles, even if you predominantly lean towards one to greatly increase the chances of the goal “sticking” into your consciousness.
* Write down your goals. (kinesthetic) *
* Post them up where you can see them regularly. (visual) *
* Read your goals out loud every week. (auditory) *
You can even take it a step further and tell as many people as possible about your goals. Others will hold you accountable for what you’ve told them. Your best bud will ask “How’s that weight loss coming?” and you’ll confidently reply “Oh it’s great, I’ve lost 6 pounds over the past 6 weeks just like I’ve predicted.”
Here are six areas of your life where you can set goals for the upcoming year. You may have more areas and you may have less areas. Modify how you see fit and get started!
1. Career
2. Financial
3. Academic
4. Spiritual
5. Family
6. Physical
Leave a comment with some of your goals here, and we can all hold each other accountable for greater success.
