A Man Without Goals is a Man Without Success

My grandmother was quite fond of the above saying. Having survived through the Depression, which to me is amazing in itself, she often had sayings about surviving and living within your means. I was taught that if I don't have goals, no matter how humble, I will end up being someone who just sort of drifts through life, taking whatever circumstances I fall into.

I'm so glad that she taught all us grandkids that success isn't just measured in monetary terms. As we look ahead to New Year's and make those resolutions, remember that success means achieving your goal. Whether you want to lose 10 pounds or start college or advance in your career, having a goal gives you something to push for. Planning on how you will get there gives you the roadmap.

If your goal is to lose 10 pounds, break it down into little steps. Set a target date, say April 15. On income tax day you'll be glad you have a success to celebrate instead of bemoaning how much of your hard-earned money Uncle Sam took away from you. Set a goal to lose 4 pounds by February 1. Then go for 3  pounds by March 1. That's 7 pounds. Lose those last 3 by April 15.

You know why most people fail at their resolutions? They fail to write it down. That's it. Write it down, whether on your computer or on a post-it you stick to the bathroom mirror. Make it measurable numerically. Don't just say "lose weight." And give yourself both major deadlines and little mini-deadlines to keep you on track. I'm writing mine down on my calendar, where I can see what I need to do each week and each month. Checking those off is rewarding and lets you see how much closer you are.

What are your goals for 2012? How do you plan to achieve them? Go write them down and map them out. Share them with family or friends so you have an accountability buddy.

Have a safe and Happy New Year!