By: Gerell Webb

Setting goals is a powerful way to turn aspirations into achievements, but it requires more than wishful thinking. What do you want? What do you want, not just what you think is possible? Say it out loud. Could you write it down right now?

Dreams are just dreams until you write them
down, which becomes a goal. The new year is the perfect time to reset. Take a step back and review what we accomplished over the last 365 days. Some things we achieved, and some areas we may have fallen short.

Remember that a loss is not a failure if you
learned a lesson. So, what should you do differently this year to ensure you achieve all of your goals? I’m happy that you asked. Here are my six tips to set goals and achieve them.

1. SMART Goals: Get Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound
The acronym SMART has been a cornerstone in goal-setting methodologies because it works. When setting goals, ensure they are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. Instead of a vague resolution like “exercise more,” opt for a SMART goal such as”

Exercise 3x per week for 30 minutes” or “Lose 10 pounds by March 1st.” Yeah, put a date on your goals. This provides clarity and allows you to track your progress and celebrate milestones along the way.

2. Break It Down: Small Steps Lead to Big Wins
How do you eat an Elephant? One bite at a time. You should not be eating elephants, although I’m sure they are pretty high in protein. Large, intimidating goals can be overwhelming.

Break them down into smaller, more manageable tasks. For example, if you want to write a book, start by setting a daily word count or dedicating specific time slots for writing. Achieving these mini-goals will motivate you and create a sense of accomplishment, propelling you toward the larger objective.

3. Prioritize and Focus: Less is More
While listing numerous goals for the new year is tempting, spreading yourself too thin can lead to burnout and decreased chances of success. Prioritize your goals and focus on a few key objectives. This allows you to direct your energy and resources more effectively, increasing the likelihood of achieving significant progress in each area. Again, what do you want?

4. Visualize Success: Create a Vision Board
Visualization is a powerful tool in goal setting. Create a vision board representing your goals and the life you want to lead. Include images, quotes, and symbols that inspire and motivate you. Placing this board in a visible location reminds you daily of your aspirations, reinforcing your commitment and fueling your determination. As my college Coach used to say, “See yourself making the play before you make it.”

5. Accountability Partners: Share Your Goals
Sharing your goals with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor can provide a support system that holds you accountable. When others know your goals and intentions, it creates a sense of responsibility to follow through. Regular check-ins with your accountability partner can
offer encouragement, feedback, and a boost of motivation during challenging times. “Say what you want to see until you see what you said.”

6. Embrace Flexibility and Learn from Setbacks:
Life is unpredictable, and setbacks are inevitable. Rather than viewing obstacles as insurmountable, see them as opportunities for growth. Embrace flexibility in your goals and be open to adjusting your approach when needed. The goal is the goal. Change your approach, not the goal. Reflect on setbacks, learn from them, and use the experience to refine your approach moving forward. Resilience is a critical trait in achieving long-term success. Setbacks are just a setup for a comeback.

Here is what I hope you take away from this article. You have everything that it takes to achieve your goals. You must believe it and refuse to give up when it gets complicated. It’s not about what you’re capable of but what you are willing to do. Life has a funny way of testing you to see
if you want what you said you wanted. That’s what those obstacles are. It’s just a chance to prove that you want it. So, how bad do you like it? Shhh, don’t tell me. Show me! Happy New Year, fit fam. Let’s go to work.

Find Gerell Webb here
https://linktr.ee/thegerellwebb
@thegerellwebb