She Strengthens

New Year, New You: 7 Proven Strategies to Achieve Your Goals

As we bid adieu to the holiday season, we’re filled with optimism and resolve to make positive changes in our lives. However, statistics reveal that fewer than 10% of people who make New Year’s resolutions actually stick to them. To buck this trend, we need to approach goal-setting with a scientific mindset.

Are You Ready for Change?

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of goal-setting, it’s essential to ask yourself if you’re truly prepared to make a change. This may seem obvious, but it’s a crucial step in setting yourself up for success. According to goal-setting expert Caroline Adams Miller, “If the answer is ‘yes,’ then you’re ready to start working towards your goal.”

Step 1: Focus on a Single Goal

When it comes to self-regulation goals, such as cutting down on sweets or exercising more, it’s vital to focus on just one goal. Our self-regulation resources are limited, and depleting them too quickly can lead to burnout. By concentrating on a single goal, you’ll be more likely to achieve success.

Step 2: Make Your Goal Specific and Challenging

A well-defined goal should be specific, measurable, and challenging. Avoid setting goals that are too easy, as they won’t provide the motivation you need to stay on track. Research has consistently shown that specific and challenging goals are more effective in driving success.

Step 3: Identify Your Goal Type

Determine whether your goal requires learning or doing. If you’re trying to save money, for instance, you may need to learn how to create a budget or invest wisely. Breaking down your goal into smaller, manageable tasks will help you stay focused and motivated.

Step 4: Break Down Big Goals into Smaller Ones

Divide your long-term goal into smaller, short-term objectives. This will make your goal feel less daunting and allow you to track your progress throughout the year. By doing so, you’ll be more likely to stay committed to your goal.

Step 5: Surround Yourself with Positive Influences

The people you surround yourself with can have a significant impact on your behavior. The social contagion theory suggests that we’re influenced by the people around us, so it’s essential to surround yourself with individuals who support and encourage your goals.

Step 6: Prime Your Environment for Success

Your environment plays a crucial role in achieving your goals. Remove tempting triggers and add cues that remind you of your long-term objectives. This could be as simple as setting reminders on your phone or creating a vision board to keep you motivated.

Step 7: Add Accountability

Feedback is a critical component of achieving your goals. Share your goals with a friend or family member and ask them to hold you accountable. This could be as simple as scheduling regular check-ins or sharing your progress on social media.

By following these 7 proven strategies, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your goals and making lasting changes in your life. Remember, success is not just about setting goals, but about creating a system that supports and motivates you to achieve them.