8 MISTAKES TO NOT MAKE IN THE NEW YEAR
by: Remie Longbrake | published: December 31, 2023
It’s that time of year again when millions of people start setting New Year’s goals once again.
Sadly, however, just a month or two later, and sometimes just weeks, most of these New Year’s goals will have been forgotten or given up on.
So, what mistakes can you avoid to not be a statistic?
Well let’s get to it!
1. You are setting too many goals
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the New Year and to start setting goal after goal (after goal). But don’t make this mistake. Setting too many goals will divide your attention.
- Set between 7- 12 goals. Remember to spread them out into each of the main goals of your life, including, physical, financial, personal, professional, social, spiritual, and others you may want to add.
- Timeframe. Spread out these goals into short-term, mid-term, and long-term. Short-term can be within 2 months. Mid-term up to 6 months and long-term being by end of the year.
2. You are setting the goals too high or too low
One of the major reasons people fail to achieve their New Year’s goals is because you aim too low and set goals that don’t push the limits of your comfort zone.
Another reason people fail to achieve their New Year’s goals. They aim too high.
Both of the above can cause a severe lack of motivation…
In order to set new year’s goals you’ll actually strive achieve, you need a little fear and a
little friction to make your work for it.
3. You are not setting deadline for your goals
A goal without a deadline is a dream. This might be a worn-out statement, but it is true!
If you’ve created a list of new year’s goals last year, pull it out and take a look at it now. Does each of your goals have a deadline for their achievement? Most people create an inspiring list of yearly goals only to realize 11 months later, that they’ve have barely scratched the surface of making them a reality. So one reason is that you might fail is the lack to attach a timeline for the accomplishment.
4. You are not keeping your goals in front of you
Out of sight, out of mind. Don’t fall into the trap of writing out a bunch of inspiring goals, only to tuck them away in the desk drawer until next year. Whether you realize it or not, your mind is constantly picking up cues and signals from your environment. That’s why it’s so powerful to surround yourself with visual representations of the goals you seek to achieve.
- Review your goals at least once weekly
- Make sure to make your goals visable, whether using photos on a vision board or on paper
5. You are setting resolutions rather then goals
Here’s the truth… resolutions are just vague intentions.
Saying, “I’ll get in shape this year” is not specific enough. You need to make it specific and have a deadline.
Say something like this instead, ” I will lose 20lbs of fat by June 30th and I will do this by exercising a minimum of 60 minutes per workout 3 times per week.”
6. You are not creating a contingency plan
What happens when something comes up and you can’t work on your goal? Well you need a contingency plan of course!
So what is a contingency plan? It’s a plan of action of what your steps are when someone occurs stopping your progress. Basically, a what-if scenario of how you can prepare ahead if and when and can’t work on your goal.
- Going on vacation? Find out ahead of time does your hotel offer a workout room and what equipment do they have. Then you can change your workout to accommodate the equipment.
- Lacking motivation? Yes, this will happen so be prepared. Create a letter to yourself in the future what it would be like having your goal accomplished. Use that letter to kick yourself into motion.
- Lack of time? Go back to your calendar and adjust it as needed so you can still work on your goal.
7. Your goals are not anchored
Goals are most effective when they’re anchored to strong beliefs and a cause for action. Simply, if you don’t want the goal enough you’re not inclined to follow through with them.
Remember to make your goals specific and make them your own. Too often I hear something like, “Well my wife wants us to start eating better.” Sure that’s a good reason to please your wife, but how can you get on board? Eating better is a great goal but that also means some sacrifice. Use this as something better for you. You’ll feel better, look better, have more energy, etc. Now there’s a win! Remember to think positively.
8. You are not rewarding yourself
When you win, celebrate! Too often we just go through the motions and don’t stop. When you make accomplishments take time to celebrate that. It doesn’t have to be elaborate just recognize your hard work and commitment towards your goals. And not forget to share your progress with those who care about you so they can also recognize your win… plus help keep you motivated.
You got this, have a great New Year!