Last night as we ushered in 2010 I took a hard look at where I’m at in life and within seconds I knew that I had to make some decisions and steps to get where I always thought I’d be at this stage of my life. I’m a constant thinker so I knew all along (even before this night) that I had to approach things differently if I want to be successful at all that I attempt in 2010. I’ve never been one to make New Year Resolutions so I’m not calling this a resolution, but rather a “Success Plan”. Do you have a “Success Plan” for 2010?

I read an article a while back about setting goals and resolutions and though I don’t have most of the article, nor do I recall who wrote it… here’s the part that I kept:

Set standard SMART goals. The goals you set should meet the following criteria:

Specific: The goal must be specific, concise and simple. It should state what is it that you want in simple understandable words.

Measurable: Your goal should be measurable, you should know and let others know (if they are also affected by your goals such as your employers, business partners, etc.) of what would it mean if you achieve the goal and what it will take to be successful. For example, if your goal is to get a new car, you must state how much money will be required for it, how much extra money will be needed for the tax, etc.

Achievable: Your goal should be achievable and realistic. Be practical. This is the most important step to keep in mind. People usually fail in goals because they set unrealistic goals that are simply not possible within the given scenario.

Relevant: Your goal should be relevant to what you have dreamed of. It should have something that, when you think of achieving it, will motivate you enough to put in the effort and actually achieve it.

Time bound: Your goals should have a time frame. You should specify the time you will need to achieve it. Be careful to set a realistic time frame. If your time frame is too short for the goal to be achieved it may be discouraging and prevent you from achieving it; while on the other hand, if you take too long to achieve a goal, you will soon get exhausted and more likely quit.

Note: I’d like to credit the author so if anyone knows where this article originates, do leave me a comment below so i can give full credit.

Besides the advice above, I’d also like to recommend that you “write” your goals down and from time to time make adjustments and constantly go back and review what you wrote. Don’t just tell yourself you want to do “this” and “that” and keep it all in your head. Write them down.

Did you know…

According to a survey I came across, here’s the top 10 New Year’s Resolutions that people make at the start of every year:

1. Spend More Time with Family & Friends
2. Fit in Fitness
3. Tame the Bulge
4. Quit Smoking
5. Enjoy Life More
6. Quit Drinking
7. Get Out of Debt
8. Learn Something New
9. Help Others
10. Get Organized

Before I go I’d like to wish everyone a great start to 2010 and may you find the success you desire in all that you attempt.

Regards

Chris..

p.s. maybe I’ll post some of my goals for 2010 in the coming days to share with you.