Have you set your goals for the new year yet? If you haven’t so, it’s not too late! Goal setting can be overwhelming. You know that you want to dedicate time during this new year for growth; however, you don’t know where to start. Maybe because you’ve attempted to set new year resolutions for yourself in January and by February, you’ve forgotten about them entirely. Perhaps you find it difficult to set realistic and achievable goals. If you are reading this, you have already started the process. Pat yourself on the bat, the first step is done!
Here are six tips on how to successfully set goals for 2021:
Be Specific
Make sure your goals are specific. Include details like what you need to do and why. Jotting down reasons you want something to be a new goal can help motivate you throughout the process and achieve them. Questions to ask yourself when incorporating specific details of your goals are, “how will I know I’ve reached my goal?” and “how long will each goal take?”.
Measurable Goals
Another critical detail to include in your goals is how you are going to measure them. Whether they are for your daily, weekly or monthly targets, you want to be specific on the timelines of each of your goals as well. To make your goals more attainable, break them down. Make sure you’re realistic too. Does your goal require you to work on them every day or every week?
Share Your Goals
Once you have all the details of your goals written down, share them with someone you trust. Whether it’s a partner, a sibling, a parent, or a friend, having someone hold you accountable will help you keep track of your progress. Ask to check in monthly to see how you’re doing and whether or not you need to reevaluate your goals.
Make Them Visible
The best way to remind yourself daily about your goals is to either write or type up your goals and post them around your home. Try posting your goals in your bedroom, office, or your doorway entrance. Think of areas around your home where you would be reflecting the most or require reminders frequently. It doesn’t hurt to have them posted in multiple areas or even onto your phone or computer for additional prompts.
Check-In
Reflect on your goals weekly or monthly. Have an honest reflection with yourself and ask yourself, “how well did I keep up with my goals this week?” Aside from having someone else hold you accountable, hold yourself accountable as well. Perhaps having a checklist of each goal and check them up will help you keep track. It’s ok not to reach a goal. It may mean you need to reassess your goals.
Goals Are for You Only
Ensure that each goal is for you and you only. We often think of goals that involve others like your romantic partner or your business partner. Make sure your goals are a reflection of you and your needs. Ask yourself, “Is this goal for me, or is it someone’s desire for me?”
Remember to be kind to yourself. It’s ok to fall off the tracks. Remember 2020? It was a year filled with hurdles and challenges for many of us. You’ve made it to 2021. So, let’s make it the best year yet!
Need some inspiration? Here is a list of goals you can add to your list:
- Create a monthly budget
- Read more books
- Spend less time on the screens
- Eat more fruits and vegetables
- Exercise 3 x weekly
- Go for walks
- Start a side business
- Reconnect with family and friends more
- Meditate daily
- Explore a new city locally
- Cook more wholesome meals at home
- Declutter your belongings
- Donate or volunteer
- Have a more minimalistic and working wardrobe
- Drink more water
- Drink less alcohol
- Start journaling
- Incorporate 5 minutes of self-care daily
- Create a morning routine
- Create a nightly routine
Guest post article is co-written in partnership with Linh Pham, co-founder of Designer Swap and our In House Virtual Stylist and event co-ordinator.
Linh is Carmelia Ray’s Style Expert. She consults and advises clients in making fashion decisions for dating and lifestyle photoshoot profiles. She provides customized recommendations on individual pieces, entire looks, colour palettes, styles, and fabrics. She is the Co-Founder of an online luxury consignment boutique called Designer Swap and a women’s networking group called Canadian Lady Bosses. She loves fashion, travelling, shopping, and women empowering events.
