New Year - New You

Want to start over, well that can easily be done with just a little bit of effort. Try using SMART GOALS!

Cecily Cole-Jones

MacBook Air beside gold-colored study lamp and spiral books
MacBook Air beside gold-colored study lamp and spiral books

What are SMART goals?


  • Specific: Your goals should be clear and specific. Instead of saying, “I want to get fit,” try “I want to exercise for 30 minutes, five days a week.”

  • Measurable: Set criteria to measure your progress. This could be tracking the number of workouts, pounds lost, or miles run.

  • Achievable: Ensure your goal is realistic and attainable. It’s great to aim high, but setting a goal to run a marathon next month when you’ve never run before might set you up for failure. Start with smaller milestones.

  • Relevant: Your goals should align with your broader life objectives. Ask yourself why this goal is important and how it fits into your long-term plans.

  • Time-bound: Set a deadline for your goal. A time frame creates a sense of urgency and helps you stay focused. For example, “I will run a 5K in six months.”

Tracking Progress: Staying on the Path

Keeping track of your progress is essential to stay motivated and adjust your plans as needed. Here are some methods to help you monitor your journey:

  • Bullet Journals: A bullet journal can be a powerful tool for tracking goals. You can create daily, weekly, and monthly logs to record your progress. Use symbols, colors, and notes to keep it organized and visually appealing.

  • Goal-Setting Apps: There are numerous apps designed to help you set and track your goals. Apps like Habitica, Todoist, and Strides offer features like reminders, progress tracking, and rewards to keep you motivated.

  • Regular Reviews: Schedule regular check-ins to review your progress. This could be weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Reflect on what’s working, what’s not, and adjust your approach as necessary.

Staying Motivated: The Key to Longevity

Staying motivated can be challenging, especially when the initial excitement fades. Here are some tips to help you maintain your enthusiasm:

  • Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your small achievements along the way. Whether it’s a special treat or a simple moment of acknowledgment, celebrating progress can boost your morale.

  • Create a Vision Board: Visualize your goals by creating a vision board. Use images, quotes, and symbols that represent your aspirations. Place it somewhere you’ll see it daily as a constant reminder of what you’re working towards.

  • Find Accountability Partners: Share your goals with friends, family, or a support group. Having someone to hold you accountable can provide motivation and encouragement. You can also join online communities focused on your specific goals.

  • Stay Flexible: Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes you may need to adjust your goals. Stay flexible and be willing to modify your plans if circumstances change. The key is to keep moving forward, even if it’s at a different pace.

By setting SMART goals, tracking your progress, and staying motivated, you can make this New Year your most productive and successful one yet. Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Here’s to achieving your dreams and making 2025 your best year ever! 🌟


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