New Year’s resolutions?
Forget about it!
I don’t even remember the last time I made one. They’re a recipe for disappointment, and I’m not about to let myself down like that. If you’re like me and don’t do well with News Year’s resolutions, then you’ll find my system interesting.
Instead, I’ve found that setting smaller goals works better for me. It’s like taking small nibbles instead of trying to swallow an entire elephant whole. One bite at a time! By breaking down big goals into manageable chunks, I’m more likely to succeed and feel like a champ.
For example, I’ve set a business goal for January 2024 to gain 40 more email subscribers for my newsletter. Here’s how I plan to achieve it:
There are 4 weeks in January.
The goal is to get 10 subscribers a week.
This breaks down to 2 subscribers a day.
Action Steps:
- Engage on LinkedIn every day from 9am – 9:15am (this is scheduled on my calendar)
- Create valuable posts
- Like and Comment on other people’s post
- Attend an online networking event at least once a week. Some common ones include the Happy Neighborhood Project, Coffee Chat Club and Alignable. (I also schedule this on my calendar)
- Post my newsletter biweekly (also scheduled on my calendar)
This is something that I can totally wrap my head around! A goal that’s simple and do-able, no fuss or frills.
But to say, “I want to add 40 subscribers to my list,” is like trying to catch a cloud. It’s too vague and hard to measure, making it a recipe for failure.
While many people make New Year’s resolutions with the best intentions, the reality is that resolutions often do not work for a variety of reasons. Here are some common factors that contribute to the challenge of sticking to resolutions:
Too Many Resolutions
It’s important to note that I have only established one goal. It’s a trap to juggle too many resolutions all at once. Stacking up too many goals makes it tough to stay on track and prioritize.
Unrealistic Expectations
Resolutions can be like unicorns – magical but almost impossible to catch! If I said I wanted 1000 subscribers, sure it’s possible, but about as likely as a snowball fight in July! Setting goals that are out of reach can leave us feeling like we’ve failed before we’ve even begun. And we don’t want that!
Lack of Specificity
Vague resolutions, such as “get more subscribers” or “increase my followers,” lack specificity. Without clear, actionable steps, it’s challenging to make meaningful progress.
No Clear Plan
Resolutions that stick are all about planning. Put your actions on the calendar to help you stay accountable. Remember — every goal requires a clear path and specific actions to get there.
If you want your resolutions to be absolute winners, it’s time to get real and make precise goals. Nail down a plan and spark that inner fire to keep you going! And if you stumble? No biggie, my friend! Just use those moments as an opportunity to learn and grow, and you’ll be unstoppable on your journey of self-improvement.
Hi 
I’m Shamayne, and I’m an executive virtual assistant.
I’m like a Swiss Army Knife for small business owners—handling everything from email newsletters to creative design tasks, and everything in between.
Think of me as your partner-in-crime, taking on the tasks you don’t have time for.
To schedule a free 30 minute session with me click here.
