What is it that makes New Year’s resolutions so difficult?  It seems as if we shrug off our goals for the incumbent twelve months as all but lost before we even commit to them.  

“I want to lose 10 pounds.”  

“I want to exercise three times per week.”  

“I want to travel more.”

What’s wrong with these longings for greatness?  Simple.  They aren’t resolutions at all. A phrase that begins with “I want…” is a mere pipe dream that will fade to the background of life, and eventually disappear altogether. The most successful people in the world are goal-oriented.  Pick resolutions that are goals you can achieve even if challenging, and commit.  Fully commit.  Make your goals specific, measurable, and attainable.

“In 2014, I will work out at the YMCA Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings from 8am-9am.”

“By March, I will weigh no more than 162 pounds.”

“In July, I will travel to San Francisco, and in December, we will visit New York City.  I will save $150 per paycheck to pay for the trips.”

What a difference.  These goals illustrate a road map for your path to success.  Take a few minutes each day specifically for your goals, and inch towards them.  Evaluate and benchmark your progress each week or month.

We wish you a happy, prosperous, and resolution-fulfilling 2014!

-N