The countdown is on and we are looking ahead to a great year.  There is just something about the sound of 2010 that is particularly strong!  So let’s talk about resolutions.  Some people are goal oriented throughout the year, and some are just not.  Somewhere between these two groups, we all seem to gather at January 1 each year and discuss New Year’s resolutions.  For some, it is a time of optimism, where each year the focus on achieving a goal leads to an accomplishment.  For others, it can be a difficult time remembering goals that were not achieved. So how can you ensure that you reach your goals in 2010?

Set yourself up for success.  Reach and trust yourself, but recognize where you are, who you are, and that establishing realistic goals will really lead to more success in the end.  Have you ever decided to join a gym and work yourself into the ground because you really mean it, that this is the year?  When did you next return?  Was it two days, two weeks, or two months?  Hey, I’ve been there.  I can recall a particularly awkward feeling after attempting a Jane Fonda workout video and waking up the next day feeling sore and humiliated!  I don’t remember how many times more I tried the video, but it wasn’t many.

Also remember that the goal CAN be a big one!  It’s not only about setting a realistic goal and achieving it, its about pushing yourself in a realistic way based on where you are.  For example, whether it is a marathon or a 5K, it begins by lacing up the shoes and making a commitment to yourself to keep moving.  It may start with walks or short runs that slowly build and increase each day.   It could be reading more to your kids or reading an hour together everyday, but it starts with just sitting down and picking up the book.  It could be walking at the lunch hour three times a week, or dusting the exercise equipment in the basement everyday that you don’t use, but just to remember it is available so you are more likely to use it next time.

Resolutions are a process.  Be committed to the process and allow yourself flexibility when the day or week doesn’t quite go the way you hoped, but don’t quit on yourself.  You and your resolution are worth the continued effort!

So what will it be for you this year?  We’d love to hear about your goals and the process along the way.  Remember to congratulate yourself for your good deeds in 2009, and carry that positive energy into 2010!