It’s hard to believe the new year is almost here, but there’s no need to stress with our three easy tips for kicking off 2018 on a high note.
1. Plan, Plan, Plan
If you don’t already have one, it’s time to buy your 2018 desk calendar, planner, whatever works for you. Go through each month and write down important dates, prior commitments, potential vacations – anything you can already fill in.
Then pick one goal for each month and write. it. down. Bonus points if your goals all tie into your New Year’s Resolution. For example, if your New Year’s Resolution for 2018 is to slow down – maybe your January goal is to read a new book, your February goal is to do one thing for self-care each day, and so on.
Pro tip: Put these dates and goals in your phone too! Set a reminder that you’re halfway to your January goal of reading 2 books a month! It’ll give you a much-needed boost if you’ve gotten off track.
2. Build up your support
According to Harvard Business Review, you can’t achieve your goals without the right support – and we completely agree. If you really want to reach your goals this year, get ready to recruit some help. While they don’t have to achieve the same goals as you – your S.O., family, best friends, coworkers, gym buddies and mentors all play a role in keeping you on track.
On the days when you’re tempted to reach for the TV remote instead of a book, these people are going to help hold you accountable.
Make sure your team of supporters knows exactly what your goals are – and why you want to reach them. This team can play a huge part in your success, so choose your support wisely.
3. Hold yourself accountable
Having others hold you accountable can be really helpful, but don’t forget to hold yourself accountable too! Entrepreneur recommends doing this by tracking your progress – it will help you see how far you’ve come, but also remind you of how far you have to go.
Here’s an easy way to do this: Pick one day a month to “check in.” (The first or last of each month is usually easiest to remember!).
Create a Google Sheet or Google Doc that you go to on your check in days and update the status of each goal. At the end of the year, it’s nice to see how much progress you’ve made in 12 months – and it’s all in one place.
Say it with us “2018 is going to be my year.” Now, go make it happen!
