5 secrets to smarter goals setting
You don’t have to wait for new year to reassess your goals, though many people do and they start with great intentions.
If you have arrived here looking for inspiration to get smart with your goals, no matter what time of year it is, well done, you’re in the right place.
If it’s that time between Christmas and New Year when you don’t know what day it is, but you’re want to start the new year with new beginnings, fresh resolutions, and a whole lot of “I’m going to change my life this year!”…. let’s get real first
While many of us dive into goal setting with enthusiasm, a staggering 43% abandon their goals by the end of January. Why does this happen, and more importantly, how can you make sure you’re part of the inspiring 8% who actually stick with their resolutions?
Let’s break it down with some smarter goals setting techniques that defy the usual advice.
The power of goal setting
First things first: goal setting isn’t just a trendy New Year’s tradition. It’s a powerful tool for personal and professional growth all year round.
When done right, it brings focus, motivation, and a clear direction to your life. But here’s the kicker – most people struggle to maintain their commitment. Let’s change that narrative and unlock the secrets to sustainable goal achievement.
💡 Fun fact: Dr. Gail Matthews, a psychology professor at Dominican University, found that writing down your goals makes you 42% more likely to achieve them. So grab that pen (or your favourite digital tool – I use Notion) and let’s get started.
Defining your goals
Before you jump into the goal-setting frenzy, take a moment to reflect on what you truly want.
Whether it’s personal growth, career advancement, or embarking on a new adventure, clarifying your goals is the first step toward making them a reality.
Visualise where you want to be and what you want to accomplish. Then, transform those dreams into concrete objectives using the SMART framework.
1. SMART Goals action plan
To nail smarter goals setting, let’s break it down with the SMART criteria:
S – Specific:
Be clear and precise about what you want to achieve.
Example: “I want to launch a successful online fitness coaching business.”
M – Measurable:
Set criteria to track your progress.
Example: “I will achieve £2,000 in monthly sales within six months.”
A – Achievable:
Ensure your goal is realistic given your resources and abilities.
Example: “I will dedicate 10 hours a week to my online business while balancing my current job.”
R – Relevant:
Make sure your goal aligns with your values and long-term vision.
Example: “This goal aligns with my passion for health and fitness and will create additional income.”
T – Time-bound:
Set a deadline to create urgency.
Example: “I aim to reach £2,000 in monthly sales within six months from today.”
2. Make small progress each day for big results
Want to be real? Forget the idea that massive, overnight changes are the key to success. Instead, embrace the power of small, consistent actions.
James Clear, author of the brilliant book “Atomic Habits,” champions this approach. To keep your smarter goals setting journey on track this year, consider these strategies:
- The importance of habits: Your habits shape your identity. Focus on transforming your habits to achieve lasting change.
- The 1% Rule: Improve just 1% each day. These small gains compound over time into significant progress.
- Optimise your environment: Your surroundings influence your habits. Make the right choices easier and the wrong ones harder.
- Identity-based habits: Align your habits with your identity. Instead of saying, “I want to lose weight,” say, “I am a healthy person.”
3. Key factors for goal persistence
Achieving your goals requires more than just a SMART action plan; it demands perseverance and resilience.
With 43% of people giving up by January’s end, here are key factors to help you stay committed:
- Find your “why”: Understand the deeper reasons behind your goals to fuel motivation when obstacles arise.
- Consistency: Develop daily habits that support your goals. Small, consistent actions lead to significant progress. Cut out activities that drain time and energy without substantial gains.
- Adaptability: Be ready to adjust your approach when challenges arise. Flexibility is crucial for long-term success.
- Accountability: Share your goals with someone you trust who can hold you accountable. Regular check-ins with a friend, family member, or coach can provide necessary support.
- Resilience: Accept that setbacks are part of the journey. Learn from failures and use them as stepping stones to success.
4. The power of visualisation
Visualisation can supercharge your smarter goals setting. When you consistently visualise your goals, you reinforce your commitment to achieving them.
Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Find a quiet place: Sit or lie down comfortably in a quiet space.
- Relax: Close your eyes and take deep, calming breaths.
- Imagine your goal: Vividly picture yourself achieving your goal.
- Engage all senses: What do you see, hear, feel, taste, and smell in this moment?
- Feel the emotions: Let the excitement, pride, and joy wash over you.
- Immerse yourself: Spend several minutes fully immersed in this mental experience.
Regular visualisation can rewire your brain to stay focused and motivated. And don’t forget to write your goals down and display them where you can see them daily – on the fridge, your bathroom mirror, anywhere you need a reminder.
Regularly practicing visualisation can rewire your brain to stay focused on your goals and increase your motivation to attain them.
Don’t forget to write your goals down too, put them on the fridge, your bathroom mirror, anywhere you see them everyday.
5. NLP Practices for goal setting
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) can give your smarter goals setting a powerful boost. NLP helps you understand and reprogram your thoughts and behaviours for success.
One effective NLP technique is the “Well-Formed Outcome” process. Ask yourself these questions to ensure your goals are well-defined and aligned with your values:
- Is your goal stated positively? (Avoid negatives.)
- Can you initiate and maintain this goal independently?
- Does it respect the context and environment?
- Is your goal measurable?
- What evidence will you use to determine success?
- Are there any negative consequences?
- Does it fit with your values and beliefs?
By examining your goals through the lens of NLP, you ensure they align with your true desires, boosting your chances of success.
Accountability and support
Accountability is a game – changer in smarter goals setting. Share your goals with someone you trust – friends, family, or a coach.
Knowing someone is keeping tabs on your progress can boost motivation and deter you from giving up.
Consider joining a support group with people who share similar goals. These groups provide encouragement, advice, and a sense of community, making your journey more enjoyable and rewarding.
Explore coaching
Why consider a free 30-minute consultation with Paula Bolton?
Ready to apply smarter goals setting principles to your life? Paula Bolton, a seasoned business coach, offers personalised guidance to help you succeed; You’ll get:
- Tailored guidance: Paula listens to your unique aspirations and challenges, crafting a customised plan to reach your objectives effectively.
- Accountability and motivation: Paula and her team will hold you accountable, ensuring you stay on track and motivated throughout your journey.
- Proven strategies: With expertise in SMART goals, visualisation, NLP practices, and more, Paula has a track record of helping clients transform dreams into reality.
In a world where 43% of people abandon their New Year’s resolutions by January’s end, you have the chance to defy the odds and join the inspiring 8% who achieve their goals.
Final thoughts
Goal setting isn’t just a January tradition; it’s a year-round journey of growth and transformation.
Remember, your goals are the stepping stones to your dream life. Take the first step today and never look back.
Let’s make this year the one where you turn those dreams into reality.
