January tends to be a quiet month after the busy holidays. It’s also the month that marks the start of a new year for the vast majority of people and a great time to focus on ourselves and our goals, or resolutions, as we call them this time of year. Taking some time for introspection and goal setting is a great thing to do. Where did this resolution culture come from?
It's been said that we get this custom of resolutions at the new year from the ancient Babylonians who celebrated New Year's and resolutions as far back as 4,000 years ago. Their new year began in March, not January. We celebrate in January thanks to the ancient Romans and their two-faced god of doors, Janus (who could see backward to the past and forward to the future). He was often associated with doorways and gates because they mark transition points.
Whatever your resolution, the beginning of the year is a great time to review your current situation and update your goals. Use my updated JotForm to be SMART and write out those goals. It's been said that most resolutions/goals fail for three main reasons: the goal is not specific, it's worded too negatively, and it's not truly relevant to the goal setter. Just writing down your goals will help make them real, provide a focus for you to revise and clarify your goal, and it will give you something physical to look back on. Your goal should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely - SMART! That R in SMART could also mean Relevant. Make your goal relevant to you. Please feel free to use my revised New Year's Goals form (also here: https://form.jotform.com/200125960786154). There are few things you can do to set better goals and have greater success.
First, do not set too many goals at one time. That way, you are not overwhelmed and stressed about meeting multiple goals. It is ok to have multiple goals, but be conscientious of the timeline for each goal. Personally, I think focusing on about three goals at a time is best.
Second, write it down! Writing down the goal makes it real. It helps provide a focus for you to revise and clarify your goal, and it will give you a guide to look back upon. Whether you go old-school and use paper and pen, or electronic and use your phone or laptop, write it down!
Finally, remember the R in SMART and make it realistic/relevant to you! It has to be something important and something that will impact you in a positive way. Be sure the goal is important to you.
You get the picture. Your goal should not be unrealistic and so difficult that you will fail from the outset. Examine your goal, revise it, see how it fits into your life and your financial plan, and then write it down, be specific, and use SMART. And remember, course correct when needed!
As an independent CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, I can help you plan for the new year and be on top of your goals. Contact me and let’s get started on a new goal whether it’s a savings plan, retirement plan, debt reduction, or something specific. #talktometuesday #education #Hireaplanner #stressfree #newyear #savings #goals #2022 #debtfree #budget #CFPPro #LetsMakeAPlan #SMART