New Year, Fresh Start, Awesome Future

January 2016 is on the move and we are all getting our resolutions or goals for the year designed. Goals and strategic plans to reach the goal objective are building blocks to creating the desired future you're searching for. I've actually had many people tell me they aren't going to make resolutions this year and that is completely okay. If you've worked with me I like to plan goals not make resolutions... it is far more effective and less damaging to ones self-esteem.

The problem with making resolutions is once a person has a 'to do' list (which is essentially what a resolution list is) they neglect to make a plan to get there. Having a list with no strategic plans or follow through makes that list virtually useless. You must design the plan to make it happen and then you must hold yourself accountable to achieving the plan objectives (which need to be specific to achieving the goal objective). If you're good at these techniques than you've already won half the battle, now all you need to do is put your plan in action.

There are specific components I like to see in every strategic goal plan my clients use. The plan objectives need to be designed specifically to achieve the goal outcome. There needs to be follow through and accountability checkpoints, a reward assigned to be received when the goal is accomplished, a time line  for when it is to be completed, and everything needs to be realistically achievable. For each resolution you have this year be sure to design a plan to get there. Many resolutions are large ticket items which can require multiple steps (goal plans) to reach the ultimate destination. For example, if your goal is to lose weight this year you will most likely tackle this on a weekly or monthly basis.

First, how much weight do you want to lose this week? (Remember when designing a weight loss plan you should always consult your physician as well). Most trainer professionals will list two pounds a week as a realistic goal. Then you need to decide on the specific action steps you're going to take to get there. In general, life style changes are more effective than diets (unless you're following something specific with your doctor). You might want to create a meal plan and exercise plan for the week as specific actions. You'll want to create an accountability and follow through component. I often refer clients to sites like sparkpeople.com which allow you to record your daily food intake and exercise out put. It also allows you to record your progress. This makes an awesome accountability and follow through process. Your time line is already built in as this is a weekly goal. You should then pick a reward. How are you going to celebrate achieving your goal? Double check to make sure it is realistic and you are set. Then follow your goal for the week and check on your success when you've completed the actions. Make a new plan the following week taking in to account what you learned from the prior week.

This process can work for any goal/resolution you set. Better relationships, finding a significant other, breaking harmful or negative habits, overcoming obstacles, building confidence, changing careers, moving toward leadership objectives, writing and publishing a book, achieving a lifelong dream and so much more. The sky is the limit. Dream big and create realistic goals to get to the desired end result.

A coach can also check these points and create follow up/through and accountability components for you. Working with a coach helps with the brainstorming, overcoming objections to obstacles, facing the reality of what needs to be done as opposed to what one wants to be done, and even helping an individual to overcome internal obstacles that are keeping them from achieving their goals like self-esteem, confidence, changing ingrained negative behaviors, overcoming emotional eating, getting motivated to get started and so much more.

Resolutions can come in so many forms and many coaches are trained to help you move through the list and work on the items piece by piece to get you to your desired ultimate goals. If you're looking for a little help to make your resolutions/goals stick this year I am offering an amazing deal to new clients. Half off (50%) on all my coaching packages if purchased in January 2016 with the coupon code THE RIGHT START

Check out my packages here and give me a call. Remember, first time clients also receive the first coaching free. Space is limited for new clients so give me a call today to get that free initial coaching session scheduled.

For existing or past clients I'll also give 25% off my packages if you order the package in January 2016 and use the coupon code THE RIGHT START...

Learning effective goal planning is a skill that can help someone overcome so many things, change negative behaviors, and create solid future plans. This is a powerful tool and one that is the focus of every coaching session I have with clients. I work hard to teach this skill to my clients as we work so they can use this long after our coaching sessions end. This year, invest in yourself, your relationships, your future, and your success.

Subscribe to my blog by email at the top right hand side of this blog post and also to my newsletter for news, tips, training details, updates, awesome deals and so much more.