Many of us think to make resolutions for the new year and that’s a good thing. But instead of the popular “I want to lose weight” or “I’m going to quit smoking (drinking, etc. …)”, go one step further by adding 2 measurable perimeters to your resolution.
The first is to give it an amount that is a number. For example, instead of “I want to lose weight”, your resolution need to include “20 lbs (weight)”.
The second perimeter is to give the resolution a deadline. So if your resolution is to “Quit smoking”, state “I want to completely stop my one-pack-a-day cigarette smoking habit by June 30, 2014”.
These two perimeters help you define further your goals and how to achieve them. They are measurable and you can monitor them as your progress.
Of course, don’t be too hard on yourself with resolutions. Don’t beat yourself up if you didn’t lose the 20 lbs by June 30th (bikini season), instead celebrate your achievement of losing 10. Revisit your resolution and reset your goal. Was it a bit too ambitious? Was it realistic?
The bottom line is to make new year resolutions that are right for you, and are achievable and measurable. Than put in some hard work and keep your eye on the prize (resolution goal). And don’t forget to celebrate the milestones along the way.
So what is your New Year resolution for 2014?