I always look forward to a new year. Even when the last year is a great one, there’s just so much more to do, to see, to experience. As nerdy as it seems, it’s true, as I transfer calendar information and doctors’ information, I get a rush of excitement – what does 2012 hold for me?
Whatever I want. This is the biggest lesson I’ve learned. Ever. I know that I can’t everything I want, all at once. But because some things haven’t gone my way, I’m embarking on 2012 with a clean slate and different, better dreams.
So, I think, (and I don’t know this for sure, obviously) the key to New Year’s Resolutions, or goal setting in general, is this:
- Set your goals to be whatever you want – long shot or easy
- Then leave some room for wiggle (or failure)
- Then pace yourself
So here’s my example. I want a lot of things for 2012 and I do this for each one but here’s an example:
- By springtime, put a roof over my own head (and Luna’s), preferably in North Park area, convenient to family, work and RAW
- Buy a house or rent an apartment that allows Luna, when the time is right and money is comfortable, somewhere between Wexford and Shadyside.
- To meet the bare minimum, stay focused and minimize frivolous spending, and research, call and negotiate prices.
To all you home owners or apartment renters, you’re welcome for this boost of confidence. But try the method for something else. Maybe you need to kick a bad habit, or succeed with a fitness goal? Maybe you’re looking to take a relationship to the next level, or get out of a dead-end job.
Whatever it might be, plan to reach your goals by creating wiggle room and pacing yourself. Lord knows how much can change in a year. Make 2012 the year that your dreams come to fruition – whether completely or just a little bit.
