Don’t Make a New Year’s Resolution – Create a Vision

It's that time of year again, making the dreaded New Year's resolution that we will eventually forget about or fail to meet. It can be quite depressing and feelings of frustration and failure can occur. Do something different for 2011 – create a vision or two to

A vision statement allows you to specifically state where you want to see yourself and lets you see the clear picture of how to obtain your goal by the end of the year.

For example, the most popular resolution is, "I want to lose weight." This is very vague and can seem difficult because you are not sure how to accomplish this goal. Yes, you may need to join a fitness club, stop eating fast food, or even hire a dietician, but the fact is the resolution does not give you a clear picture of what you will gain by losing weight. Here is an example of a vision statement for those who wish to lose some extra pounds:

"I see myself being two sizes smaller so that I can get into that size 10 dress I have my eyes on at the mall."

The difference in the resolution and the vision is that you are visualizing your goal which will give you more motivation to pursue it. In the above example, it states specifically how much weight you wish to lose (2 dress sizes), why (wear a size 10), and the reward when you reach the goal (purchase). In other words, now you have a purpose.

Here's how to create your vision statement for 2011:

1. Start with the words 'In 2011, I see myself…..'
   
2. Be specific.
   
3. Be realistic.
   
4. List subgoals that are related to the vision.
   

   In the weight loss example, list what you think you will need to do in order to achieve your goal.
   

5. Reward yourself.
   

   As you get closer to achieving your vision and complete each subgoal, reward yourself. This serves as a motivator to reach your achievement.
   

6. Be prepared to revise the vision statement at any time.
   

   Vision statements are not etched in stone and can be revised as needed. When you lose the weight you initially stated, you may wish to lose more, so revise it and begin again – don't forget to list the subgoals and reward your accomplishments.
   

   
    

The good news is you have 365 days, 52 weeks, and 8,760 hours to accomplish your vision. Use the time wisely, achieve your goals, and feel good about your triumphs.