Well, soon if not already people all over the world will begin planning to change. What form will it take? Many goals will come in the form of the physical dimension: weight loss, working out, running etc. Others may wrap around business goals- to perform at a higher level, sell more units, get the raise that you have always wanted.

I recently reviewed my goals from 2008. Some were accomplished and others will be moved to this next year in 2009. I wanted to share 5 Principles of Goal Setting and resolutions with you as you get ready to embark upon the adventure of a New Year!

Goal Setting:

1. Be Realistic. So many of my clients want to go from adding/subtracting to calculus in under one month – be mindful of what is realistic for you to undertake within the next 12 months for 2009.

2. Be Creative. Many times before we even set a goal we limit ourselves. STOP doing that… We no longer dream because we have snuffed out our own creativity. Open your mind- what are you passionate about? What is something you have always wanted to do… ADD that to the list.

3. Baby Steps. Small and measurable goals are much better than starting with a 5 year goal. For instance, if you want to accomplish a goal in the physical realm start with a lower weight goal rather than the total amount. If you want to lose 20 lbs in 2009 start by having a goal of 5 lbs before February 10th, 2009.

4. Power of YET. I heard of this concept from a clinical Psychologist. He stated that people negate their ability to accomplish great things by accepting the negative rather than embracing the positive… He made everyone write down what they would accompish using the YET phrase. Let’s say that one of your goals is to make a six figure salary in 2009. You would write “I have not YET made 6 figures but I will in 2009.”

5. Focus on People. Early in my career I was focused on money and success. They were my idols and I put all of my energy into both. I now realize that they do not last. One of my favorite quotes is “All men are like grass and all their glory is like the flowers of the field, the grass withers and the flowers fall*…” This earth is temporary, my success is temporary, life is temporary… So what lasts? People and the memories of them. When people are taken from this world their friends and loved ones keep them alive through cherished stories and lasting memories. Spend time with your family and loved ones for no one knows what tomorrow holds.

As you set your goals and New Years Resolutions I wish you all the best and success in life and love.

I leave you with a photo of my 2 godchildren this Christmas- one of my Goals in 2009 is to spend MORE time with them!!

Blessings on you in 2009