New Year, New Goals

The meaning of resolution is "a firm decision to do or not to do something." The key words are "firm decision". If you make a firm decision about something then you must also take action and set a deadline, in other words, set a goal- Catherine Pulsifer

As 2022 comes to a close, I am sure every one of you has a new milestone that you hope to achieve in 2023. It is with these milestones that I hope you take the time out to make that shift that you want for your life. Speaking about those changes can only go so far it is important to plan out how you can make those thoughts a reality. Just as the quote above states take some action, build a deadline, and then your goals will be manifested.

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To give you guys some insight my three goals for the new year are to finish school, better my businesses, and become an established face in the mental health community in Tampa. These are goals that I'm sure will shift life for me and although I can't predict the future I will make them a priority as I enter this year. It is important to remind myself of these goals as the year progresses and use them as markers for changes I want to see by December 2023!

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The last but most important portion of goal-setting would be to build on those thoughts and make them habits. I believe there are five valid steps that a person can take in order to turn those goals into habits while chasing them.

1. Set a specific goal

2. Create a detailed, cue-based plan

3. Make it fun to repeat

4. Foster flexibility

5. Find the right kind of social support

The way you define the goal you hope to turn into a habit does matter be specific about what exactly you aim to do and how often. After the goal, make a specific plan that forces you to maneuver around obstacles that alleviates procrastination. Most of us overestimate our willpower thus only using an efficient path to achieving our end goal but you have to make it fun so you can follow through. Be flexible which means you can still do what you need to even when a wrench is thrown in your plans. Social support isn’t just about having supportive people, it's about people that hold you accountable. Good habits are contagious, so try to catch some by hanging out with people who are on the same wavelength that you're on!