2009 Resolutions

Its just a few weeks away. 2009. Tell it what you expect of it now. Don't enter it blindly.

What do you want to accomplish in 2009?

What are your personal goals? Financial goals? Spiritual goals? Career or business goals? Heck, I even have goals for home projects. I work them into the budget and give them time lines.

What is the benefit of having goals?

It helps give structure to your life. And, most of us need and thrive on good structure. It gives us purpose and direction.

How do I stay on track?

Have all of your goals written down and review them weekly at first, then when you are on the right path, monthly. Share them with others in your life and have discussions about them. Invite others to share their goals with you. Recognize that your goals were made because they were important to you so stick with them. Don't let another year go by to find them on the list with little progress. You control the success of your goals.

Happy Goal Setting. I hope that 2009 is your best year ever!

Creating Your Plan for 2009

Now is the time to lay out your life map for 2009. Here's an quick step version of how to do that.

1. Spend some time in thought- what do you want to accomplish in 2009, why, and what are the small steps to get you there
2. Write down your goals, rationales for those goals, and timelines for the small steps
3. Tell everyone about your goals. Share your written plan with them so they can support you. Encourage them to have a plan and encourage each other.
4. You must hold yourself accountable to the steps and timelines- or find someone who will hold you accountable (remember, this is your life- don't cheat yourself out of another year)
5. Review your goals daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly and annually (depending upon how they are written)
6. Forgive yourself for minor missteps and get back on the plan immediately (we all eat a little chocolate while on a diet)
7. Reward yourself for the milestones you achieve
8. Repeat as necessary

My plan also includes data on my status; what did I accomplish this year; what attributes do I have that allow me to achieve my goals; what am I thankful for; what are my 5 year and life's goals; etc..... This is more like a report or guide versus a single piece of paper. I run my life rather than let life run me. This guide helps me do that.

Happy 2009!