The solution to regret

This may sound like a “no-brainer” but if you don’t have clear goals, that’s the first problem. A goal or a vision of what you want - long term – is the first step. So whether it’s to lose 20 lbs. or to vacation in Paris, you have to be crystal clear about what you want. In other words, your WHY has to be very compelling.

A practical plan for reaching your goal is the next requirement. Without a plan, a goal is just a dream. There are plans for weight loss, money management, even for keeping a relationship strong. So create or borrow a plan from someone else who has done what you want to do.

Next is support. Support and accountability are key. Because no matter how motivated you are when you start – motivation doesn’t last. Just go to a gym January 2nd and then return 30 days later and see the difference. So get a team or coach that will hold you accountable to taking action on your plan. This could be a business coach, financial advisor or even a workout buddy depending on your goal.

The bottom line is that while it might not be human nature to focus on the long-term, the rewards are definitely worth it.  It reminds me of another quote:
 
"A year from now, you'll wish you started today."
-----------------------------------------------------

Ending 2009 Powerfully.

Besides saying goodbye to 2009 with a look back through my pictures, I also have a year end ritual (or year beginning depending how you look at it) that I do on the first day of the year. 

Before I take down my wall calendar, I write down my top 25 accomplishments from the year.  I try to include personal and professional things like new clients, vacations I've taken, new cities I've traveled to, plus any exciting developments in my business, and time I've spent with family.  When you really think about it and pay attention to the small things too - 25 isn't difficult to come up with.

Then I list my Top Distractions of the year.  This includes what took me off track and possibly interferred with me reaching my goals.  This is the time to be ruthlessly honest with myself.  Sometimes it's a person or a project that consumed my time and energy without a positive outcome.  This past year it was a personal issue - my weight.  It distracted me, took my energy and at times, got a lot of attention (negative).  All that and I made very little progress in the direction I wanted to go.  Noted!

Next, I set my goals for the coming year.  I usually pick a few business, a few personal and now - a new category - relationship goals.  See the next post for my Top Ten for 2010!