Goal Tending

New Year Resolutions - 7 Tips

The end of the old and coming of the new is upon us once again.  Call them Resolutions, Goals, Commitments, whatever you choose, we all know that making them is the easy part.  Keeping them past January 31st - now that's tough!

The article "How to Make Your New Year Resolutions Stick"  by author, Coach, and fellow Professional Organizer Helen Buttigieg offers 7 tips to help turn your good intentions into genuine life changes.  Her steps were so much like the Key Concepts for organizing that they really resonated with me. 

Here is a brief summary, but read the whole article if you're searching for the Key to Change for 2010!

1.  Concentrate on just 1 or 2 goals now so you stay focused.  You can do it all, just not all at once!

2.  Tie your goals to most important values, and determine your most powerful reason for attaining the goal.  When inspiration comes from within you don't have to rely on sheer willpower alone.

3.  Put your goals in writing and post them so you see them several times a day.  Repetition causes the unconscious mind to work on the goal and create a new habit.

4.  Break down the task of change into small steps and take at least 1 small action each day in that direction.

5.  Recognize that set-backs are just that, not a failure.  Be kind to yourself  and get re-inspired by reviewing those powerful reasons for reaching your goals.

6.  Reflect upon the small successes you make along the way and celebrate them.

7.  Keeping commitments requires accountability, so find a goal-buddy, hire a coach, or make an appointment with a professional organizer.  Tell your friends and family your intentions, and make this your year to bring lasting, positive change into your life.

Hope this helps you and me this year!   Let me know how your resolutions are going and call (501-620-0546) if you need ideas, resources, coaching, or an accountability partner to achieve your dreams.