We hear it every year … sometimes we even say it “new year new me.” Cheesy, maybe, but it doesn’t have to be. Let’s talk about a few easy ways to revamp your goals or set some new ones. Rather than setting ridgid resolutions let’s focus on being goal getters this new year. It doesn’t necessarily mean you have to be a “new you” this year, but just trying to be better in every way you can. You don’t need to set unrealistic resolutions or be hard on yourself for letting some of them go. Think of the new year as a way to set goals that you strive to be the most ideal version of you. If you have some old goals that you have not been focusing on lately, let’s bring those back to the front burner. That’s an excellent place to start, low and slow. If you’re more interested in starting new with your goals, here are a few that I’m going to share with you. For me personally, I will be revisiting some old ones and setting some new ones as well.
Volunteer your time
This is an old goal I am looking to revisit. I used to volunteer weekly visiting seniors. Life got a little hectic, and one of my regular seniors I visited had some health problems which prevented me from visiting her for the past couple of weeks. In 2020 I will be looking forward to getting back out in the community and volunteering. The beauty of this goal is that it is so flexible. You can give as little or as much time as you want/have, and you can choose a charity or a cause that you care about. Organizations always need volunteers to don’t hesitate to reach out to an organization that is near and dear to you and spend some time with them. It is great to meet new people and give back. Follow this link for some ideas on where you can volunteer in Canada.
Get to the gym
This is another goal I like many others; I am sure it will be revisiting. I used to exercise religiously. In the past few months, I have felt all of my motivation fleet. It is not that I hate it or I can’t make time, my problem is just physically getting myself to the gym. Why is that so hard??? Get to know yourself and what works for you. Not only do I know that I am best at getting myself to the gym when I am on a strict schedule, I know that I will go if I hold time in my calendar. That’s what makes me more accountable. What do other people do? Let me know in the comments I am interested to hear? Anyways this goal is very adaptable to different types and lifestyles. Maybe you want to get to a spin class every week or go for a morning swim three days a week. Whatever your goal, make sure it suits you and is realistic.
Read for personal development
This is something that I really feel will allow me to level up. No matter which sector you work in, there are great books that you can read to develop new skills. Many business books also are relevant across industries, so there is really something for everyone. First, I have a few books that I can recommend that I found were beneficial for my personal development at home and at work, check them out here if you’re interested and looking for somewhere to start. Secondly, I also recommend going and taking a look your local Indigo’s business section, the one I go to at Yorkdale has a section “the CEO’s bookshelf” and there is always something new.
Cook at home
This is a new goal for me. Reading cookbooks counts as personal development, right? I have never loved cooking and avoid it at all costs. I can’t believe I am even admitting to this. My husband makes all of our meals bless his heart. Anytime I HAVE to cook, I make chicken breasts, rice and broccoli OR order in. This year I am going to be stepping up my game in the kitchen. I am equipped with some new cookbooks courtesy of Mikaëla Ruby (check out her list of cookbooks worth revisiting) and some new kitchen gear … wish me luck.
Look for the good
This is one that I think most of us could use. Looking for the good is just a habit you have to make. First, let me just say it is so easy to sweat the small stuff; believe me, I am a type A. But this year, I am making a conscious effort to let things go a little more and practice gratitude. This year I am going just to smile and try to enjoy the crazy ride that is life. I know I can’t be alone here, I am sure many of us could use the reminder to look for the good and make the best of things.
I think that the best way to keep your goals is to make them specific and easy to incorporate into your life. Write them down, think about them long and hard and refer back to them often. It’s a marathon, not a sprint! That means you only get to the gym twice that week, celebrate that you’re creating good habits rather than focusing on the days that you missed. Whatever your goals may just remember that you’re trying, and that’s worth something. Best of luck to all of you in setting your goals and striving toward them. I hope 2020 is all that you want it to be. Now go be a goal getter!
