How To Smash Your Goals in 2023
The last several years taught us a lot about uncertainty, to the point where now we probably have gotten used to plans changing on a whim or at least a bit more comfortable with variability. Nevertheless, the beginning of a new year is a hopeful time. It is often a time where we daydream and envision our ideal future and motivate ourselves to turn our vision of this future into reality by reaching and smashing our goals.
The last several years taught us a lot about uncertainty, to the point where now we probably have gotten used to plans changing on a whim or at least a bit more comfortable with variability. Nevertheless, the beginning of a new year is a hopeful time. It is often a time where we daydream and envision our ideal future and motivate ourselves to turn our vision of this future into reality by reaching and smashing our goals.
My method of goal setting remains the same, but I wanted to add a few specifics this time around:
1.START WITH A YEAR REVIEW
I know this might seem like a lot of work, but it’s worth your time. Don’t stress, just be honest with yourself. If you had a planner last year, just look back through the months and assess everything without judgment. The easiest way to do this review is by answering these 5 questions:
Identify 3 to 5 things that made you proud from 2022
If you set goals for 2022, how far did you get?
Identify what worked well, what didn’t work and why
Are there things you would like to improve, start or stop doing?
What are some of the lessons you learned last year that you want to keep moving forward?
2. PRIORITIZE YOUR GOALS
Now that you’ve done your year review, identify the top priority areas that you want to work on whether it is career, finances, health, relationships, etc. It could be all of the above, but pinpoint specific things in each category to work on. Remember, this is not about anyone else but YOU. This is personal.
3. WRITE YOUR GOALS DOWN
A sure way to make things happen is to write it down. It sounds strange, but there is enormous power in putting things down on paper, and according to research you become 42% more likely to achieve your goals and dreams when it’s written. I always keep a physical (paper) planner even though I use the planner on my smartphone as well.
4. BUILD A SYSTEM AROUND ACHIEVING YOUR GOALS
This is where we sometimes lose focus. We may know what goal(s) we want to accomplish but before putting action steps into place they are intentions. Right now the steps in how to accomplish your goals might be blurry, let’s turn them into action:
5. MAKE YOUR GOALS S.M.A.R.T.E.R
So how exactly do you set intentions that you will actually stick to? Be SMART about it. But this year, I want us to be SMARTER.
Before you set a goal, first figure out your “why.” By figuring out and articulating the reason you want to achieve something you are more likely to remain motivated to stick to it.
S - Small and Specific: What do you want to do? Break your goals into smaller, more specific ones. For example, if your goal is to eat healthier in 2022, be more specific by making it about adding 1 fresh fruit or vegetable and a bottle of water per day for the month of January.
M - Measurable : How will you track your progress? All your goals must be measurable, that means you should be able to describe the physical manifestation of the outcome of your goal. Example, losing 2lbs per week by adding one fruit or vegetable and a bottle of water to our diet each day.
A - Attainable: How will you do it? Is your goal attainable? Can you realistically achieve your goal? Another great way to stay on track is to find an accountability partner. Example, someone who will check in to make sure you had your fruit/vegetable each day or someone who will ensure you meal prep.
R - Relevant: Is this relevant to your life right now? Is this goal relevant to you or even realistic? Ensure you’re not setting a goal that you really don’t care about and hence not realistic. Example, I dislike running. If I make it a goal of mine to incorporate running 1 mile/day I know I will fail. Instead, I ensure I get my cardio in by getting on the elliptical, peloton or taking a Zumba class.
T - Timely: When do you want to do it? Make a tentative plan for everything you do. Don’t just make it a goal to exercise once per day. You know your schedule, you know if you’re a morning or late night person. Instead of saying you will work out once per day, say you will work out at 5:30am on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for 1 hour before work.
E - Evaluate: How is it going? If you’re not tracking your progress how will you know what’s the cause of you not getting those killer abs? At the end of the month, go back through your planner and see if you stuck to the plan to reach your goal. 1. Did you meal prep every week for the past month? 2. Did you in fact incorporate 1 fruit/vegetable and a bottle of water to your diet each day for the month? Did you work out 3 times per week for the month? It’s okay if you missed a day or two (you’re a work in progress).
R - Readjust: How can you make it better? If you missed the mark in some areas last month =, you can make adjustments to improve next month. 3 days per week at 5:30am didn’t work for you? Maybe try Monday morning at 6am before work, Wednesday evening at 6pm after work and Saturday afternoon. Readjust until you hit your sweet spot.
6. TRACK YOUR PROGRESS, REFLECT AND RE-CALIBRATE
Resist the urge to freestyle your goals and actually check your progress as you go along. At the end each month, take time out to analyze what you have achieved, what you failed to achieve and how to improve on this (last 2 steps above). Journaling as you go along and circling back at the end of each month can really help you to stay on track.
7. ADJUST TO LIFE’S LEMONS
Life gets in the way and can derail you. Things such as illness, family commitments, work, life emergencies etc can impact your goals. Take note of these things and adjust as you proceed.
8. ASK FOR HELP
Lastly, get an accountability partner. Have a friend or loved one you can lean on for moral support and encouragement, you will need it from time to time. If you need specific help, reach out to those who can offer any guidance or assistance. The internet and social media is a great way to make connections.
Bonus: Be your own D**n Cheerleader and eliminate self doubt. Figure out what keeps you motivated and inspired. I love quotes! I keep them everywhere - my phone’s wallpaper, sticky notes around the house, on my desk at work, on the bathroom mirror, etc. I listen to music, books and podcasts that are uplifting. I tolerate no negativity and try to stay away from it at all costs.
Remember, a goal without a plan is just a wish. By breaking down your goals into bite-sized, manageable actions and writing them down, setting goals and intentions for the new year that you can actually stick to becomes a much easier process.
Grab a planner, a journal and let’s get ready to smash our 2023 goals! Remember, a sure way to make things happen is to write it down.
A Guide To Setting SMART Goals
The value of setting goals in life cannot be overstated. We need to feel like we’re working toward a goal to ultimately feel fulfilled and joyful in life. But are all goals created equal? Not necessarily. The outcomes you want ultimately point to the quality of the objectives you’re setting for yourself – and if you’re not using SMART goals, you could be holding yourself back
Sometimes we set goals and then fall short, that’s okay. Everyone fails from time to time – it’s part of life’s journey. But if you find yourself consistently not reaching or giving up on your goals, it’s time to find a new way to set your intentions.
The value of setting goals in life cannot be overstated. We need to feel like we’re working toward a goal to ultimately feel fulfilled and joyful in life. But are all goals created equal? Not necessarily. The outcomes you want ultimately point to the quality of the objectives you’re setting for yourself – and if you’re not using SMART goals, you could be holding yourself back
MAKE YOUR GOALS S.M.A.R.T
So how exactly do you set intentions that you will actually stick to? Be SMART about it.
Before you set a goal, first figure out your “why.” By figuring out and articulating the reason you want to achieve something you are more likely to remain motivated to stick to it, rather than it being something you think you should do.
S - Small and Specific: Break your goals into smaller, more specific ones. For example, if your goal is to eat healthier in 2023, be more specific by making it about adding 1 fresh fruit or vegetable and a bottle of water per day for the month of January. Do you want to make more money this year? Saying you “want to earn more” is too vague. Instead, pick a number for how much money you want to earn. Is it $150,000 per year, $500,000 or even $1 million? Set a clear number to track your progress against. Having a specific goal is helpful in two ways: you can better visualize your outcome – imagine all those zeroes in your bank account – and you will know without a doubt when you’ve achieved it.
M - Measurable : All your goals must be measurable, that means you should be able to describe the physical manifestation of the outcome of your goal. Example, losing 2lbs per week by adding one fruit or vegetable and a bottle of water to our diet each day. Or, in the case of making $150,000 per year you can check the numbers as the year goes on to see if you’re reaching the goal.
A - Attainable and Accountability: Is your goal attainable? Can you realistically achieve your goal? Another great way to stay on track is to find an accountability partner. Example, someone who will check in to make sure you had your fruit/vegetable each day or someone who will ensure you meal prep. If it’s to make $150,000 do you have the potential to even earn that income (switching jobs, salary increase, unique skills, side hustles, etc). When you create a goal that’s too lofty, it can seem impossible. You may be overwhelmed and eventually give up.
R - Relevant and Realistic: Is this goal relevant to you or even realistic? Ensure you’re not setting a goal that you really don’t care about and hence not realistic. Example, I dislike running. If i make it a goal of mine to incorporate running 1 mile/day I know I will fail. Instead, I ensure I get my cardio in by getting on the elliptical, bike or taking a Zumba class. Realistic goals are those that you are willing and able to work toward that can be achieved by improving your current habits.
T - Timely: Make a tentative plan for everything you do. Don’t just make it a goal to exercise once per day. You know your schedule, you know if you’re a morning or late night person. Instead of saying you will work out once per day, say you will work out at 5:30 each morning for 1 hour before work/school. Do you think you can start earning your desired salary in six months, one year or two years? Having a clear time frame is essential for checking your progress along the way to reaching your goal.
Because of their effectiveness, SMART goals are commonly used in business, but you can also use them in your personal life, from creating fulfilling relationships to mastering a new skill. No matter which area of your life you want to improve, this tested strategy saves you the wasted time of not knowing precisely what you want or how to get it. SMART goals can help you “ladder up” to the bigger goals you set when you identify your purpose. Being purposeful and living with intention is what SMART goals are all about.
HOW TO ACHIEVE SMART GOALS
Now that we’ve answered the question “what is a SMART goal?” let’s look at a few tips for achieving them.
START SMALL
Instead of tackling your most urgent or loftiest goal pick something small to start with.
WRITE IT DOWN
According to a study conducted at the Dominican University in California, those who write down their goals are 42% more likely to achieve them. It doesn’t matter whether you write your SMART goals in a journal, enter them into an app or type them into a Word document. Just make sure they are documented.
CHECK-IN REGULARLY
How long will it take you to reach your SMART goals? How do you know if you’re falling off track? Regular check-ins allow you to evaluate your progress and course-correct when necessary.
DON’T LET FEAR HOLD YOU BACK
If you’re not making the progress you’d like, take a look at what’s holding you back. Are you hesitant because your goal or approach is unreasonable, or are you reticent because of a deep-seated fear of failure? Finding the source of your hesitation is critical, since overcoming our fears is pivotal to goal mastery as well as personal and professional development.
CELEBRATE EVERY WIN
When you celebrate wins – even the small ones – your brain gets a boost of dopamine that reenergizes and refocuses you. If you’re working on professional SMART goals, celebrate small wins with your team. Not only will this help you to continue to press forward but it will also inspire your team to do the same. Personal successes? Celebrate with your friends or family. After you’ve celebrated, get right back on track so you can work toward celebrating the next win.
Setting Financial Goals in 2022
It may be important to cut down on carbohydrates or increase the number of trips you make to the gym each week (of course, you can still do those things), but harnessing the power of focused financial discipline can provide you with practical habits that can serve you for a lifetime.
At this point we have become very good at setting new year goals or resolutions. However, setting financial goals for the new year is a very different kind of ambition than working out, losing weight or making our beds every day.
Yes, it may be important to cut down on carbohydrates or increase the number of trips you make to the gym each week (of course, you can still do those things), but harnessing the power of focused financial discipline can provide you with practical habits that can serve you for a lifetime.
Here are seven straightforward and achievable practices for helping to improve your financial future.
Set Up a Budget & Track what you spend
A great first step is taking note of your monthly net income. That would be your take-home pay or any other income you have, after taxes. Next, list all of your expenses, including fixed items such as housing, utilities, transportation, and any regular debt payments, such as loans, credit cards, insurance, etc.
Include and track your average grocery costs, out-of-pocket medical fees, and discretionary personal spending. Hopefully there’s enough room left in the budget for saving and investing. The important idea here is to make a budget that works for you and to stay on track.
Set Up an Emergency Fund
It’s easy to feel confident when everything is going fine, but having a rainy day fund set aside in an accessible account could mean the difference between getting through a difficult stretch or falling into a much more dire situation. Th rule of thumb is to have 3-6 months of living expenses put aside. Some people opt to have a more hefty cushion, like 12 months. If you lose your job, encounter a serious health issue, or are met with any number of other unexpected financial challenges, having an emergency fund could make all the difference to your financial wellbeing.
Pay Off Credit Cards
Getting a handle on credit card debt is critical in creating healthy New Year’s resolutions you can actually stick to and follow through on. The credit card companies are very adept at convincing people that spending is easy. Try to pay off the entire credit card balance whenever it is used.
If you’re unable to pay the entire balance and have multiple credit cards consider credit card consolidation. This can allow you to get on a fixed payment schedule with a target payoff date, potentially lower your interest rate, and possibly improve your credit score.
Saving X Amount of Dollars
I am not a big proponent of having money sit in a savings account because the interest rates on average are really low. Unless you’re putting money towards your emergency fund or putting money aside for a big purchase like a downpayment on a car or home, your money is better placed in investments where the returns are much higher.
Saving for Retirement
It is never too early (or late) to put money away for retirement. Opening a 401(k) or an IRA should be a top priority. Hopefully, your employer will offer to match your 401(k) contribution up to a certain percentage. This can be especially beneficial because your contributions aren’t taxed on the way in.
Alternatively, if your job does not offer a 401(k) plan, you can set up your own IRA. If you already have one, you can make it a New Year’s resolution to contribute the maximum amount. Currently, 401(k) plans and IRAs have a maximum limit of $20,500 and $6000 for 2022, respectively.
Start Investing
Deciding on what investments to make can be a part of your overall financial strategy. Most likely you have goals spread throughout all the stages of your life plan and your portfolio should reflect those priorities.
For example, your short term goals (fewer than three years) may include an emergency fund, travel plans or buying a car. You may want these funds to be liquid in order to access them more quickly. For medium and longer term investments (saving for a down payment or retirement etc), you may be able to take some risk, thereby increasing the opportunity for greater returns. It’s always helpful to have some guidance as you establish your investment plans. Speak with your financial advisor to see the options that are best for you and your situation.
Here are some Investment topics and strategies to dive into:
Investing 101: Invest In Yourself
Setting Up Your First Investment Account
How To Start Investing In The Stock Market
6 Questions To Ask Before Investing
6 Tips on Getting Into Real Estate Investing
5 Ways To Invest in Real Estate
Up Your Investing Game with NFTs
Long Term Financial Planning
While it may seem like you have plenty of time before you need to focus on long-term financial goals, there can be more to it than just saving for retirement. It’s never too early to imagine where your life is headed and what you want to achieve in the future.
This can be anything from owning a home, to raising a family, to starting a business, to becoming debt free, to maximizing your earning power. Envisioning what’s possible can enable you to set practical goals to get you there. Once you’ve outlined a plan it is equally important to revisit your plan regularly and make adjustments as needed.
All of these options provide a practical way to rethink your financial activities so you can begin developing an overall strategy for building wealth. And the earlier in your career that you start—especially in your 20s and 30s—the more power your money can provide you over the long run.
Of course it’s never too late to start adopting practical habits for spending, saving, investing and planning. And if you set your mind to it, there’s no limit to the possibilities you can uncover—while maintaining that resolution to go to the gym regularly, too.
How To Smash Your Goals in 2020
As we optimistically set out to achieve great things at the beginning of the year, we must break our goals down into small manageable, attainable and realistic ones. Setting new year resolutions has been a long time tradition but did you know that statistics show that only about 10% of people actually stick to their new year resolutions past the month of January?
“When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better, too.”
As the new year fast approaches and we are all in a resolution mindset, we must not forget the very important step of pausing and taking the time to reflect on all the progress we’ve made so far. It is quite easy to beat ourselves up on the areas we may feel we have fallen short, but remember that this process is not about perfection but about progress. As long as we are constantly improving and moving forward we are on the right track.
With that said, as we optimistically set out to achieve great things at the beginning of the year, we must break our goals down into small manageable, attainable and realistic ones. Setting new year resolutions has been a long time tradition but did you know that statistics show that only about 10% of people actually stick to their new year resolutions past the month of January?
I am a huge proponent of self improvement and and an even bigger proponent of setting goals that are actually measurable and attainable.
So how exactly do you set intentions that you will actually stick to? Be SMART about it.
Before you set a goal, first figure out your “why.” By figuring out and articulating the reason you want to achieve something you are more likely to remain motivated to stick to it, rather than it being something you think you should do.
S - Small and Specific: Break your goals into smaller, more specific ones. For example, if your goal is to eat healthier in 2020, be more specific by making it about adding 1 fresh fruit or vegetable and a bottle of water per day for the month of January.
M - Measurable : All your goals must be measurable, that means you should be able to describe the physical manifestation of the outcome of your goal. Example, losing 2lbs per week by adding one fruit or vegetable and a bottle of water to our diet each day.
A - Attainable and Accountability: Is your goal attainable? Can you realistically achieve your goal? Another great way to stay on track is to find an accountability partner. Example, someone who will check in to make sure you had your fruit/vegetable each day or someone who will ensure you meal prep.
R - Relevant and Realistic: Is this goal relevant to you or even realistic? Ensure you’re not setting a goal that you really don’t care about and hence not realistic. Example, I dislike running. If i make it a goal of mine to incorporate running 1 mile/day I know I will fail. Instead, I ensure I get my cardio in by getting on the elliptical, bike or taking a Zumba class.
T - Timely: Make a tentative plan for everything you do. Don’t just make it a goal to exercise once per day. You know your schedule, you know if you’re a morning or late night person. Instead of saying you will work out once per day, say you will work out at 5:30 each morning for 1 hour before work/school.
In all of this, a sure way to make things happen is to write it down. It sounds strange, but there is enormous power in putting things down on paper, and according to research you become 42% more likely to achieve your goals and dreams when it’s written. I always keep a physical (paper) planner even though I use the planner on my smartphone as well. After years of not being able to find the perfect planner, I have decided this year to create a goal planner and to share it with my readers.
Bonus: Be your own D**n Cheerleader and eliminate self doubt. Figure out what keeps you motivated and inspired. I love quotes! I keep them everywhere - my phone’s wallpaper, sticky notes around the house, on my desk at work, I listen to music, books and podcasts that are uplifting. I tolerate no negativity and try to stay away from it at all costs.
Remember, a goal without a plan is just a wish. By breaking down your goals into bite-sized, manageable actions and writing them down, setting goals and intentions for the new year that you can actually stick to becomes a much easier process.
Grab my planner and let’s smash our 2020 goals! Remember, a sure way to make things happen is to write it down.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Set New Year Intentions (Goals) that You Will Actually Stick To
A new year is upon us, which means it’s time to reflect on the past year and bid the last 12 months adieu. With 2019 comes the promise of a fresh start whether it be personal or professional. But, how many of us get really excited for a new year and set lofty goals only for them to fall by the wayside in mid-January? Setting new year resolution for goals has been a long time tradition but statistics show that only about 10% of people actually stick to their new year resolutions past the month of January - that’s pretty low, but we can change that.
A new year is upon us, which means it’s time to reflect on the past year and bid the last 12 months adieu. With 2019 comes the promise of a fresh start whether it be personal or professional. But, how many of us get really excited for a new year and set lofty goals only for them to fall by the wayside by mid-January? Setting new year resolutions has been a long time tradition but statistics show that only about 10% of people actually stick to their new year resolutions past the month of January - that’s pretty low, but we can change that.
I am a huge proponent of self improvement and and an even bigger proponent of setting goals that are actually measurable and attainable. So how exactly do you set intentions that you will actually stick to? Be SMART about it.
Before you set a goal, first figure out your “why.” By figuring out and articulating the reason you want to achieve something you are more likely to remain motivated to stick to it, rather than it being something you think you should do.
S - Small and Specific: Break your goals into smaller, more specific ones. For example, if your goal is to eat healthier in 2019, be more specific by making it about adding 1 fresh fruit or vegetable and a bottle of water per day for the month of January.
M - Measurable : All your goals must be measurable, that means you should be able to describe the physical manifestation of the outcome of your goal. Example, losing 2lbs per week by adding one fruit or vegetable and a bottle of water to our diet each day.
A - Attainable and Accountability: Is your goal attainable? Can you realistically achieve your goal? Another great way to stay on track is to find someone you trust to keep you accountable. Example, someone who will check in to make sure you had your fruit/vegetable each day or someone who will ensure you meal prep.
R - Relevant and Realistic: Is this goal relevant to you or even realistic? Ensure you’re not setting a goal that you really don’t care about and hence not realistic. Example, I dislike running. If i make it a goal of mine to incorporate running 1 mile/day I know I will fail. Instead, I ensure I get my cardio in by getting on the elliptical or bike each day.
T - Timely: Make a tentative plan for everything you do. Don’t just make it a goal to exercise once per day. You know your schedule, you know if you’re a morning or late night person. Instead of saying you will work out once per day, say you will work out at 5:30 each morning for 1 hour before work/school.
In all of this, a sure way to make things happen is to write it down. It sounds strange, but there is enormous power in putting things down on paper, and according to research you become 42% more likely to achieve your goals and dreams when it’s written.
Bonus: Be your own D**n Cheerleader and eliminate self doubt. Figure out what keeps you motivated and inspired. I love quotes! I keep them everywhere - my phone’s wallpaper, sticky notes around the house, on my desk at work, I listen to music, books and podcasts that are uplifting. I tolerate no negativity and try to stay away from it at all costs.
Remember, a goal without a plan is just a wish. By breaking down your goals into bite-sized, manageable actions and writing them down,setting goals and intentions for the new year that you can actually stick to becomes a much easier process. Happy New Year!
Get Your Finances In Order: The Basics
It's the start of a new year and with it comes the need to plan for the year ahead. This is the season for resolutions! So while you make your goals to lose weight, start that new diet, travel more and live your best life, one thing you should include is to become more fiscally responsible. It's time to get your finances in order.
It's the start of a new year and with it comes the need to plan for the year ahead. This is the season for resolutions! So while you make your goals to lose weight, start that new diet, travel more and live your best life, one thing you should include is to become more fiscally responsible. It's time to get your finances in order.
Here are 5 things to get started on the right path:
1. Have a PLAN
Create a roadmap for your finances. What are your financial goals and what will you do to achieve them? Break your goals down into bite-sized action steps and work diligently to reach them. Put a timeline on each goal to keep yourself accountable. Make a plan for all the things that will require money. Consider hiring a financial planner/advisor that can give you personalized recommendations and keep you on a timeline.
2. Create and Commit to a Budget
This will take some discipline. Consider adopting and applying the the 50-30-20 rule. Essentially this means, 50 percent of your money each month should go to essentials like bills and housing, 20 percent should go towards your financial goals like savings, saving for retirement and paying off debt/student loans, and 30 percent should go towards wants like vacation, entertainment, etc. Of course your budget sometimes need a little wiggle room but for the most part try to stick to this plan. Automate is so that you don't have to think about it.
3. Start a Retirement Fund
It is really important that you get on this early! It is vital that you prioritize creating and contributing to a retirement fund and take advantage of compounding interest. Compounding interest will do a lot of the hard work for you if you start early. Try to maximize your contributions and take advantage of any match system your job has to offer. Speak with your accountant about the tax benefits.
4. Keep an Emergency Fund
Make sure you have at least three (3) to nine (9) months of funds saved up for a rainy day. This is where part of the 20 percent savings portion of your budget should go, and it's there in case you lose your job, become ill, or encounter an unexpected expense. Keep this money in a separate savings account at a separate bank from your checking account and forego a debit card for that account. Also, automate your contributions. Ask your employer to direct debit a portion of your salary into your emergency fund account. You can also consider placing the funds into an account with high yield interest.
5. Tackle your debt.
All debt are not created equal. There is what we call good debt and there's bad debt. Things like credit card debt are considered bad debt because it grows pretty quickly and doesn't help you in the long term. Interest rates are usually higher and can take much longer to pay off. On the contrary, student loans are considered good debt because it's an investment into your future earning power. Put as much money as you can towards credit card bills first starting with the with the one with the highest interest. Once that's paid off, prioritize the next highest interest debt, and so forth. Also consider automating the contribution to your debt payment so that you never have to worry about a missed or late payment.