New Year's Resolutions

Have you fallen into the New Year's Resolution trap? You set BHAGs . . . Big Hairy Audacious Goals at the beginning of the year and dedicate a short period of energy toward achieving them, become overwhelmed and then give up.

Here are some ideas if this describes your experience:

1. Set and reset goals whenever it makes sense. No need to wait for a new year to become the "you" you want to be.

2. Divide your goals up into steps so you can achieve "mini-goals" on the way to your main goals.

3. Realize it is o.k. to adjust your goals based on new information and changed perspectives. This is not a failure, but part of the growth process. The key is to know why you are making the changes and make a conscious choice to change your goals.

4. Enlist people to help you achieve your goal. Publish your goal to supportive people. Get a coach or mentor to help. Find other people with similar goals for support.

5. Research your goal. It is likely other people have tried similar paths, maybe there is wisdom you can tap into so you will not have to "reinvent the wheel." Granted, be careful about advice and think critically about its merit and its application to your specific circumstance.

6. Realize there will be set backs and do not give up. Resolution is very close to the word "resolve." Achieving goals requires resolve.

7. Lighten up and enjoy life, goals are there to support your happiness, not interfere with it.

Happy New Year!

Shaun