NEW YEAR, NEW MINDSET | SETTING ATTAINABLE GOALS
Around the start of each year, we always hear people proclaim, “New year, new me!” or, “Out with the old, in with the new (year)!” With 2022 now in full swing, there can be renewed pressure to create a different version of yourself.
According to YouGov.com, the top New Year’s resolutions include:
- Personal Wellness — Popular resolutions such as improving fitness through more exercise and eating healthier foods can be expanded to include reducing stress and being more mindful of your mental health.
- Finances —Saving money is always high on the list, including setting a budget, opening an emergencies-only savings account or saving up for a vacation or other special experiences.
- Career —While this can look different for everyone, broader career-related resolutions may include deepening networking connections, improving your resume or learning a new skill that is highly marketable in the workplace.
While creating an action plan to achieve your goals, it’s important to define what healthy habits look like for you. Whether you’ve already set your New Year’s resolutions or are using this month to finalize them, consider these tips to ensure your goals are attainable:
Use the SMART goal framework
A good place to start when setting attainable resolutions is the SMART goal framework. These goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-based. They help set boundaries and provide direction to help you achieve your goal.
Create Your Plan
“A goal without a plan is a wish,” according to Dr. Daryl and Jenn’s “Motivations and Resolutions” Impact Talk. To create a lasting New Year’s resolution, you should have a plan. Watch this Impact Talk as you create an action plan to achieve the goals you set for 2022.
Establish Healthy Habits
There is a science to habit formation. The first step is identifying a small, specific action that has potential to become a habit. For example, if you wanted to incorporate meditation into your daily routine, you could start by setting aside five minutes each day to meditate. Then, build up to 10 minutes…then add more days to your routine. Before you know it, you’ll have created a healthy habit!
Be confident and bold with saying no
You do not need to say yes to everyone and every opportunity. Managing your priorities and protecting your time is 100% self-care. Setting boundaries and saying no gives space to the things that fulfill you.
In 2022, I challenge you—instead of creating a “new” you—to set resolutions focused on well-being and experiences that bring you joy.
Read more from the “New Year, New Mindset” series:
This blog post was written by Erin Donkersloot, Harm Prevention Manager, and is part of our New Year, New Mindset series.