Setting New Year’s Resolutions is all about self-improvement. What do you want to accomplish in 2009? What do you want to do differently then you did in 2008? What goals would you like to reach? While all of us are constantly working to become more, to have deeper relationships and to reach higher goals – New Years is a great time to stop and ask yourself some questions before you set those goals for 2009.
1. What do I really want?
The question of the ages. So many things you want to do with your life and so little time to even go about during the day. Take time to reflect on what you really want out of life, and out of this coming year. What things will matter at the end of 2009 and for years to come?
2. Should I really change?
Examine your motivations. There are positive reasons to change things about yourself and your life – but there are negative reasons. For example: are you losing weight to live longer and healthier? Or, are you loosing weight to fit in with the supermodels in your favorite magazine? One of the keys to successful resolutions is having a motivation that is both healthy and positive right from day one.
3. What’s the bright side in all of this?
If you’re in the middle of a crisis or a difficult situation right now, your New Year’s Resolutions may reflect this as well. Make sure to step back and consider the bigger picture. What are the positive effects or outcomes you would like? What can you do to enjoy the journey from where you are now to the end of the current situation? Try to set goals that will not only get your past the current situation, but do it with joy and a positive outlook as well!
4. Am I comfortable with what I’m doing?
There’s always the easy way and the right way when it comes to deciding to do. Can you accomplish the goals you are setting without compromising your values or yourself?
5. Have I done enough for myself?
Have you, or is there something more you want to do? As moms, many of us are guilty of this. Did you take time for yourself in 2008? Did you set any goals for 2009 that will provide personal fulfillment? Setting goals that benefit your family, friends and business is wonderful – but make sure you set some goals for yourself as well. Have you always wanted to spend a day at the spa or take an art class? Maybe 2009 is the year to do it!
6. What parts of my life am I happy with?
Why do we think resolutions are all about changing the things we don’t like? Make sure you take time to look at the things you are happy with and want to continue doing in 2009! Not only will this give you some great 2009 goals, but it will also give you a more positive outlook on the past year and the coming year as well.
7. Am I appealing to my spouse?
Yes – your spouse should love you just for who you are, and most of our spouses do. Still, take a moment to think about what one thing you could change to please your spouse. Maybe a new haircut or a great little dress would add a little spice. Maybe a date night is in order if it’s been a while. What is something you could do in 2009 to grow your relationship with your spouse?
8. How much could or should I have?
I suppose in this case there is no such things on having things too much or too little, but it’s more on how badly you really need it. Yes, a million bucks would be great – but do you NEED it and are you willing to do what it would take to get it? What costs are you NOT willing to pay to get more? Maybe it’s time with your children? WAHM’s deal with that decision often – many of us could have much more reliable incomes if we took a 9-5 job but are not willing to sacrifice being at home with our loved ones. What are you NOT willing to give up? Are you setting goals you can accomplish without sacrificing things that are more important?
9. What motivates me?
What motivates you? It’s an answer you have to find out for yourself. There are so many things that can make everyone happy, but to choose one of the may be the hardest part. We are all motivated by different things. Some of us are motivated by rewards or money, others are motivated by personal pride. Whatever your motivations are, identifying them will help you set goals motivated by things that will keep you interested and active longer.
10. What Really Makes You Tick?
So? What really makes you tick? A lot of these questions are about examining what you want, what your motivations are and what is important to you. Setting your resolutions is not just about physical or philosophical change, it’s about knowing what you really want and doing , or sometimes not doing, what it takes.
Exhausted from Trying to Be It all and Do It All? Get the help you need for finding balance in your life at Real Life Coaching
More From Crystal
Meet & Greet