Hello , 

We're already mid-way through January and while there's plenty of talk about New Year resolutions (NYR), Goals and all the expectations for the year, let's face it, I've been having a lot of those talks to, there's less about what happens when you get to the end of the month and already some of those NYR or goals are falling by the wayside.

There's a reason why gym memberships drop off in February or it's already seeming too much like hard work and you're sneaking in the odd biscuit, glass of wine or doing whatever it was you said you weren't going to do.

Here's why:

• Too vague - 'lose weight', get healthier isn't specific enough and doesn't give you a plan to follow.
• Unrealistic - trying to do too much all at once or going from zero to running a marathon in two weeks!
• All or nothing - you miss one day and give up.
• No real plan - if you don't make the time, it's not going to happen.
• Lack of accountability - if you don't share your intentions, no one will check-in or support you along the way.
• Not tracking your progress - focusing on the failures rather than the small wins along the way.
• Other people's expectations - if you're not personally motivated or connected to your NYR or goal, doing it for someone else isn't going to work.
• Focusing on the end goal as the only reward and not enjoying the journey.
• Being to rigid, not willing or able to adapt.
• Not having a support system or good habits in place.

If you want this to work, as you set your goals and expectations consider the following:

Be specific. Include targets and milestones with your goals. How much, how many, how far and more importantly, when?

Be realistic. You can't change things overnight so be prepared to start slow, take small steps and build up the momentum.

Be flexible. Life happens so adapt to the changes as you go. Recalibrate if you need to.

Track your progress. This will keep you motivated to keep going but also to see how far you've come when your willpower wanes (it will) or you slip (you will). Get back on track and keep moving forward.

Get really clear about your motivation. When things get tough, focus on why you're doing this and the positive impact it will have for you and/or your business.

Good habits. Letting go of things that don't support you and building up those that do will keep you going. Link a goal or NYR to an existing habit.

Look after yourself first and foremost. The better you feel the more time and energy you have for others, both in your personal life and at work.

Start by creating a plan for your week that gives you time for what's important and what really matters.

Stop feeling overwhelmed or overdoing it and ending up exhausted and frustrated.

Now is the perfect time to start as you mean to go on ...

Turn your New Year 'resolutions' into habits, not something you've given up on by February.

Make time for you and your goals.

Come and join me for the next four weeks or just get in touch for a chat. 

Clare