It is January 2014 and that means it is new year’s resolution time! Many of us choose resolutions, but only 8% of people are successful in achieving their resolution. So, this year we want to set you up for success. The first key to success is setting a SMART goal. A SMART goal is one that is: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant & Time-bound. The second key to success is accountability! Adding accountability will improve your chances of success from 8% to around 95%. Here are the hard truths:
Here are your chances of success if:
You hear an idea – 10% chance
If you consciously decide to do something – 25% chance
If you schedule tasks for the project – 40% chance
If you commit to someone else to complete the project – 65% chance
If you set accountability appointments with a committed person – 95% chance
So, if you are serious about making real change in your life this year, you are going to need help. Enlist a friend or family member to be your accountability partner and commit to reporting to each other at a specific date and time. You can also add a consequence for failing to meet your goal: babysit their kids for a night, pay for their dinner or make a donation to their favorite charity. If you don’t have someone that fits this bill, hire someone. Depending on your goal, hiring a coach, personal trainer or nutritionist can not only give you an expert’s advice, but add the necessary accountability to help you reach your goals.
As organizers, we are often put on an accountability pedestal. Many assume that since we are organized that we can easily achieve our goals. I am here to tell you that we have to work just as hard to create new habits or break old ones as anyone else. So, scroll down to see our team’s goals for the next six weeks. We plan to post a new blog entry each week to report in to you on how we are doing. We will also be posting on our facebook and linkedin pages, so you can check those out too.
Tara – Floss my teeth 5 times per week Joan – Exercise 5 hours per week Kelly – Exercise for 30 minutes per day up until delivery, then it will change to find one new “clean” recipe a day to implement into our weekly meals. (Kelly has a baby due in 3 weeks)Terri – one pound a week for six weeks. Krista – exercise at least 30 minutes 3x week Tracey – Lose 1/2 pound per week
If you have made a decision to create/stop a habit, set a SMART goal and have an accountability partner, then you are well on your way to success. Feel free to go to our facebook or linkedin pages and leave your goals there for added accountability. Good luck!
If you liked our post, you’re welcome to use it in your own newsletter or blog as long as you include the following blurb: Certified Professional Organizer and Life Management Expert, Tara Donohue Rudo, helps working moms and families focus on what is important. Get our FREE weekly tips and advice at www.NoMorePiles.com.