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Jan 14, 2019
The turn of the calendar to a new year brings with it a sense of excitement, renewed energy, and drive. While not everyone makes official “resolutions,” this time of year provides an opportunity to set goals for the year ahead. You’re more likely to achieve these objectives with a detailed plan, and you’ll still need to put in the hard work to achieve success, but these five steps to goal setting might make the process a bit easier.
1. Determine what brings value to your life. Before you move forward with an idea, you’ll need to evaluate your “why.” Why do you want to start your own business, write a novel, or improve your fitness level? If your goal won’t bring value to your life or you’re not passionate about the idea, you’re less likely to do the work and be successful.
2. Be SMART(er). Most of us are familiar with the S.M.A.R.T. and S.M.A.R.T.E.R. methods. Goals should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. Adding the E and R prompts you to evaluate and readjust if necessary. So instead of a broad statement to “lose weight,” aim for a specific, realistic weight loss amount by a certain date: 10 pounds by June 1, for example.
3. Write it down. Research shows that we’re more likely to achieve an objective that we’ve written down, even more so if we’ve “vividly described” it. You’ll not only have a documented record, but you’ll be better able to remember and focus on reaching it. Take it one step further and visualize your life a month, a year, or five years after you’ve accomplished the goal and write that down as well – a good way to remember your “why.” Bonus tip: instead of saying you “want to” accomplish something, say that you “will.”
4. Break it down. Large goals can be complicated and time-consuming. Don’t allow yourself to become overwhelmed or bogged down. Create an action plan and break it down into smaller, bite-sized steps or targets. Write one chapter of your novel a week or go to the gym every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. If you need external motivation, use small incentives as a reward. Treat yourself to a cup of coffee when you’ve written four chapters or a movie when you’ve hit the gym 12 times in one month.
5. Keep moving forward. Let’s be honest – sometimes life gets in the way and even the small steps may seem impossible. Don’t let minor (or major) bumps in the road stop you from working toward your success. Follow your plan as best as you can and keep moving forward. Even on the most challenging days, do one thing that will move you closer to your goal.
Whatever your goals, personal or professional, The Bank of Elk River can partner with you to help you achieve them. Our wide range of products and services includes personal and student loans, savings accounts, business checking, commercial and SBA loans, and much more. Contact us today.
1. Determine what brings value to your life. Before you move forward with an idea, you’ll need to evaluate your “why.” Why do you want to start your own business, write a novel, or improve your fitness level? If your goal won’t bring value to your life or you’re not passionate about the idea, you’re less likely to do the work and be successful.
2. Be SMART(er). Most of us are familiar with the S.M.A.R.T. and S.M.A.R.T.E.R. methods. Goals should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. Adding the E and R prompts you to evaluate and readjust if necessary. So instead of a broad statement to “lose weight,” aim for a specific, realistic weight loss amount by a certain date: 10 pounds by June 1, for example.
3. Write it down. Research shows that we’re more likely to achieve an objective that we’ve written down, even more so if we’ve “vividly described” it. You’ll not only have a documented record, but you’ll be better able to remember and focus on reaching it. Take it one step further and visualize your life a month, a year, or five years after you’ve accomplished the goal and write that down as well – a good way to remember your “why.” Bonus tip: instead of saying you “want to” accomplish something, say that you “will.”
4. Break it down. Large goals can be complicated and time-consuming. Don’t allow yourself to become overwhelmed or bogged down. Create an action plan and break it down into smaller, bite-sized steps or targets. Write one chapter of your novel a week or go to the gym every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. If you need external motivation, use small incentives as a reward. Treat yourself to a cup of coffee when you’ve written four chapters or a movie when you’ve hit the gym 12 times in one month.
5. Keep moving forward. Let’s be honest – sometimes life gets in the way and even the small steps may seem impossible. Don’t let minor (or major) bumps in the road stop you from working toward your success. Follow your plan as best as you can and keep moving forward. Even on the most challenging days, do one thing that will move you closer to your goal.
Whatever your goals, personal or professional, The Bank of Elk River can partner with you to help you achieve them. Our wide range of products and services includes personal and student loans, savings accounts, business checking, commercial and SBA loans, and much more. Contact us today.
