Do you still keep your New Year’s resolutions, or have they fallen by the wayside?
According to studies, 43% of people abandon their resolutions by the end of January, with only 8% sticking to them all year. Why is that? Often, it’s because goals are created without clarity, structure, or a plan to execute.
Clarity, intention, and structure are essential for reaching your goals. Let’s break this down into practical techniques to help you set goals that align with your vision and stay on track.
1. Use the SMART Framework
The framework ensures your goals are:
- Specific: Clearly define your goals.
- Measurable: Determine a measurable method for tracking progress.
- Achievable: Set realistic but difficult objectives.
- Relevant: Align your goals with your overall vision.
- Time-Bound: Assign a time-bound deadline..
Why does it work: SMART goals turn vague thoughts into specific, achievable targets, making it easier to stay focused and track progress.
2. Take Baby Steps
Big objectives might be overwhelming. Convert them into smaller, more achievable milestones to follow progress and celebrate small wins along the way.
Instead of saying, “I want to grow my business,” break it down into actions such as creating a marketing strategy, gaining five new clients, or launching a new service.
3. Stay Accountable
Accountability improves your odds of sticking to your goals. Share your plans with a coach, mentor, or accountability partner who can both encourage and challenge you. When you share your objective with someone, you are less likely to quit it because you want to show your ability to do tasks. Coaching Tip: Professional coaching sessions provide more than just clarity on your goals; you may also find an accountability partner, receive feedback, and celebrate your progress along the way.
4. Set Time
One of the most effective strategies to ensure that you work towards your objectives is to allocate specific time for them on your calendar. This strategy converts your intentions into actionable plans by setting up activities that are in line with your objectives. For example, if you wish to exercise more frequently, schedule sessions on your calendar. Treat these blocks of time as non-negotiable appointments with yourself, and you’ll find it simpler to stick to your schedule.
5. Link Habits
Maximise your time by incorporating new habits into your current routine. This strategy leverages moments already built into your day, such as commute or meal preparation, to integrate activities that help you achieve your goals. For example, if you want to read more books or listen to podcasts, do it while travelling to work or during your downtime. Connecting habits to established routines makes progress towards your goals seem effortless.
6. Reflect and Adjust
Goal-setting is an ongoing process. Regularly evaluate your progress, discover what is working, and make changes as needed.
Reflection Exercise: Consider checking in with yourself weekly or monthly to assess your progress.
- Am I on track?
- What works well?
- What needs to change?
Why Do Most People Fail to Stick to Their Goals?
The numbers don’t lie: most people set themselves up for failure by setting up unrealistic objectives or failing to create a plan to reach them. What is the good news? With the correct techniques and support, anyone can stick to their goals and make significant progress.
How Coaching Can Help You Set and Achieve Goals
Coaching is an effective tool for goal setting and achievement. Here’s how it helps.
- Coaches can help you define your goals with clarity and purpose.
- Coaching sessions help you stay focused on your priorities.
- Coaches provide encouragement, guidance, and accountability throughout the process.
At SmartGrowth, we specialise in assisting clients to realise their full potential and achieve significant growth. Our coaching services provide the tools and techniques needed to achieve personal development, leadership, or corporate goals.
Take the First Step
Setting and achieving objectives does not have to be overwhelming. With the correct techniques and support, you can put your goals into action.Are you ready to start your journey? Find out how our coaching services can help you reach your goals.
BONUS TECHNIQUE
Visualize Your Success
Visualisation is an effective method for staying motivated. Visualise yourself achieving your objective, including how it will look, feel, and affect your life.
Pro Tip: Tools like the Lumico Set can help bring your idea to life, making it apparent what steps you need to take.
