New Year's Goal Setting Tips

I saw the new year come in at midnight and am excited about the possibilities ahead in 2014. New Year’s resolutions are made and often not kept.
>25 percent of people abandon their New Year’s resolutions after one week.
>60 percent of people abandon them within six months. (The average person makes the same New Year’s resolution ten separate times without success.)
>Only 5 percent of those who lose weight on a diet keep it off; 95% regain it; a significant percentage gain back more than they originally lost.
>Even after a heart attack, only 14 percent of patients make any lasting changes around eating or exercise.

In spite of the statistics of failed resolutions, each year I set new goals I wish to achieve in the coming year. Here is what I have found to be helpful in successful goal setting.
1.       Review - I review my last year’s goals with a colleague and friend I meet with each week . I also reviewed my past goals with my wife. I noted the ones that I succeeded in accomplishing and a couple surprise accomplishments that were not listed. I also highlighted those goals that I failed to succeed at accomplishing. This week, I will re-set some of the failed goals that I still wish to accomplish on the list for this year. I will include new goals as well.
2.       Themes - I categorize my goals into six themes: Marriage, Family/Personal,  Spiritual Growth, Ministry, Financial, and Physical. Choose themes that fit your goals. I have one to three goals in each area. A dozen goals should be the maximum set.
3.       Record – Studies show you are 42% more likely to achieve your goals if they are written. I write them down and share them with my spouse and friend. We review our goals 3-4 times a year to see who we are doing. Success is celebrated and failure is evaluated instead of becoming self-defeating. Start 2014 with goals that excite and thrill you if they are accomplished!

Happy New Year!

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