"New Year's Resolutions - Fact or Fantasy?" ©Dr. Connie Sitterly The information contained in these responses should not be considered legal advice. Consult an attorney if you have any legal questions.

Dear Workplace Doctor,  

This year on New Years Day, like the last five or so years, I listed my goals and resolutions. I realized during the process, that I start the year motivated, but veer from the process within a week or two. In fact, I could use the same list year after year. My friends say we all do the same thing, but I feel discouraged. I 'm not accomplishing what I know I'm capable of and I know is important, but feel badly when I don't. I'm not lazy, but there's no time anyway because of so many demands I have little or no control over. Do you have any suggestions, or should I skip the exercise next year and save myself time and a little self-esteem?

Discouraged 

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Dear Discouraged,

Would you begin a long road trip without a map? Probably not. You've started the process, let's add some direction, details, and discipline.

Whether your goals are personal or business oriented - doubling last year's sales figures or getting that sought-after client - you must have a plan in writing. Without writing down your goals and mapping out the directions, it's only next year's wish list.

Goal setting focuses on the future, but requires discipline today. Should your goal be to run a marathon, you know you would have to prepare yourself both mentally and physically, months ahead. So, the same goes for accomplishing business goals.

Goals must be stated in specific terms. For example: Become general manager by June, earn $80,000 next year. Goals such as "make more money," "go back to school" are vague. The roadmap is easier to prepare when you have a specific destination. 

To look at the issue in another way, consider these seven steps toward achieving your goals:

Step 1. Think of something you want to accomplish in the next month. Decide to achieve it in 30 days. (Use action verbs such as develop, save, decrease or reduce.) Step 2. What personal and specific benefits will be yours when you have attained your goal?  What will you do with the money or with your new self-confidence?  What will the results means to you? Step 3. Picture yourself as having achieved the goal.  Does it feel comfortable?  Do you really want that goal? Step 4.  List obstacles in your way.  What are the reasons you have not already attained your goal? Step 5. How will you overcome the obstacles that are in your path? You must have a plan. Step 6. What is the first move you will make toward attaining your goal?  Is there any reason not to begin now? Step 7. Review your progress every day or as often as possible.  Use your progress to motivate yourself to continue.

The most important question to ask and keep asking is: "What am I doing today toward the achievement of my goals?" One task, even as simple as making a key phone call can make a difference. For more information, read my newsletter on goals.

The Workplace Dr. ^TM