I’ve been meaning to write a blog post about New Year’s Resolutions.  Like so many in this field, I do not believe in resolutions.  They are often such big goals that we resolve to undertake in the afterglow of the old year’s passing.

I have, in the past, opted instead for a simpler list of Intentions for the year.  But, I think that just makes it sound better. This year, I’m feeling like, even if I call them intentions, I’m still just asking for disappointment.

 It might be a better idea to think about more modest goals.  Maybe three things I want to focus on this year. Those of us who tend to think BIG, might be well advised to break these large goals up into months.  If I’m going to get to the end of the year with some of them realized, I ought to think about what I want to get done this month.  What do I need to get done in February, March, etc.?  (If you prefer, you might follow Libby Gill’s advice and break it up into quarters.)  How can you expect to achieve a large goal if you don’t plan the steps to get there.

I find it a futile exercise to say I want a book deal by the end of the year, without any instructions on how to do that.  As if all I have to do is declare it in January and it shall be so.

This Year, I’m going to start with some doable, achievable goals for the year.  I’m going to continue to focus on putting together the book proposal for the much-desired book deal.  And I’m going to say, instead of losing weight, or even losing X pounds, I want to feel better, enjoy clothes more.  I can fudge that (no pun intended) at the end of the year and say, yeah, I feel better!  One goal achieved.

I also am going to promise to maintain this Blog as well as I can while working 40 hours and commuting a whole lot more.  I will promise to post a positive slant at least twice a week, if not three or more.

The real goal of all of this is to start 2012 on a roll, feeling like I’ve done well. That’s the best recipe for success.  In the meantime, for those of us who insist on having lofty goals, I suggest making it a 12-month program.

Good luck and may 2011 be the best year yet!