Dear Anne Marie: I love learning new things. So, each year I make goals for the New Year and put all my energy into accomplishing them. I do OK for a little while and then I fall back into my old habits. What can I do this year to help me follow through and actually reach my goals?
   — Jordan L.

Dear Jordan: You are a naturally inquisitive person who loves to learn. You are energized by the actual process of learning, not just the achievement of your goals. In todays fast-paced "change environment" your love of learning is a tremendous advantage.

Managing The Moment

The "Moment to Manage" is your feeling of discouragement. A key ingredient of success is the ability to believe in yourself. Discouragement dampens your enthusiasm, reduces your motivation and makes it difficult to take action. The fewer actions you take the greater your discouragement until eventually you give up. You can prevent this downslide by putting the brakes on your discouragement.

The Game Plan

First, get rid of any goals that are "shoulds". Goals are about change and change can be difficult. If your goal is something you think you "should" do vs. something you want to do, it won't have the power of your personal desire behind it. This is a set up for failure.

Second, find out how you will benefit by accomplishing your goals. For instance, your set a goal to become more organized. What will you achieve besides a clean desk? Will it reduce your stress or make you more productive? Will you have more free time? Uncovering the benefits will help you feel more motivated.

Third, connect your goals with your strengths and your values. Integrating new goals into an already busy life can be very challenging. Bringing your goals in harmony with your values and your strengths will add both meaning and ease to your efforts.

Fourth, create an action plan. Having a goal without an action plan is like driving a car without a steering wheel. You move forward, but you have no control over where you are going. An action plan spells out exactly what you need to do.

Fifth, keep your resolutions focused on things you have control over. For example, don't resolve to reduce your workload if you have no say over what projects are given to you. You will end up overworked and feeling guilty because you didn't accomplish your goal.

Finally, make sure your resolutions don't add stress to your life. Be realistic when setting goals. Pick one or two that are important to you and are doable. Accomplishment feels good; stay focused on how good you will feel when you meet your goals.