So here we are, at the end of another year!
Looking back I find myself struggling to remember my lengthy list of new years resolutions, apart from two; starting my blog and finally plucking up the courage to start my clothing line, Ma’ashuma.
Although some people aren’t that into new years resolutions, I have become a firm believer of setting goals. Goals may sound too serious, but it’s like making a grocery list, it’s a great way to help you remember what you need! Here are 4 ways to help you stick to your goals in the new year!
Keep it simple
We have a long list of things we’d like to achieve, but life gets busy and we need to be realistic.
Narrow your resolutions to 2 or 3, a manageable number that you’ll know you’ll be able to commit to.
Even 1 resolution will do! What’s important is that you make time for what matters to you every once in a while!
Strike a balance
If you decide on more than 1 resolution, make sure that it’s not all about work. Include something fun, like a hobby or an experience that will give you something to look forward to.
For example, if you set out to complete a course for work, make your other resolution about spending more time outdoors or taking a dancing class.
Break it down
Now that you’ve narrowed it down, take a few minutes to jot down detailed steps to achieve our goal and commit a date to it.
Each step shouldn’t take you more than 30 minutes, if it does, break it into 2 or more steps. The key is to make it “bite size” steps that can easily fit into your busy schedule.
For example, if you’ve always wanted to do a photography course, make a list of the steps that will get you to it:
- 5 Jan: Decide on a budget
- 6 Jan: Research the courses available
- 11 Jan: Enroll for the course
- 12 Jan: Buy a camera
- 13 Jan: Set aside an hour a week in your diary to complete the course
Once all the admin tasks are done to get you started, you will need to commit 1-2 hours a week for your resolution. To put it into perspective, if you opt for 2hours/week, you’ll be committing to 104 out of 8765.81 hours in a year, roughly 0.012% of your year just to you. I think you definitely deserve that!
Reminders
Out of site out of mind! Write your goals down and put it up where you’ll see it everyday. Stick it on the fridge if you must!
Keep a diary! It’s amazing how much I get done when I plan my week. I usually do it on a Friday just before I leave work, so that I don’t fret over my to do list over the weekend.
Having a list on Monday is also a great way to ease you into the week without too much effort. There’s also a cool app called 24me which is a brilliant organisational tool.
Lastly, set reminders on your phone or calendar of what you committed to i.e. set a reminder to enroll for your course or to spend 30 minutes on the treadmill or to book that hiking trip.
Sure it takes some planning to make your year count, but it’s well worth it when you look back and feel happy about keeping your promise to yourself!
Until next time, stay stylish!
oxo
Zeenat
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