By Kristy Cartmell, Graphic Designer
This is the year we change things up. No longer will we make lofty resolutions and blissfully welcome in the new year. After the many curve balls 2020 threw at us, it’s time to start 2021 off on a positive note and develop healthy goals that will reside all year long, no matter what can and will be thrown our way.
A good way to start is by changing your thinking. Instead of wondering whether or not you will fail, set smaller goals. Find something that is more realistic and achievable, but also pushes you to do better and puts you out of your comfort zone. Identify barriers and be flexible in how you reach your goals. Just don’t make excuses.
Find yourself an accountability partner. Make this someone you trust to have your best interests at heart and cheer you on while you’re working towards whatever you have set for yourself. Having someone like this in your life will encourage you to actually achieve something and motivate you if and when tough times come.
Form habits and find a routine that works for you. Maybe you want to develop a new skill this year. Or perhaps learn a new language or just get better at your job. Set yourself reminders and try to practice every day, even if it’s only for 10 minutes. It will make a huge difference. Once you’re in the habit, it will seem like second nature and you will already be on your way to success!
Don’t focus on the reward. This can be exhausting and cause early burn out. Not everything can be accomplished or mastered overnight. Some projects take days, weeks, months, or even years. Rushing to get to the end will often result in sloppy work or you will miss out on some of the fundamental steps along the way. Those steps can be mistakes or setbacks that you can overcome in the present instead of allowing them to be a hindrance later.
Plan for “cheat days.” Some days, you will be exhausted and feel guilty. Don’t let this become a habit, but remember sometimes you need to rest in order to keep going. We will all go through hard times at some point or another so remember to be gentle with yourself.
Through some of these tips, I sincerely wish you the best in 2021 and hope we can all feel a little more refreshed and revitalized after what seemed like a never-ending 2020.
Courtesy of Spend Life Wisely