Welcome, everyone, to the New Year! It’s a time of new beginnings, renewed energy, and the chance to dream big. Whether you’re a seasoned goal-setter or someone just starting to explore the power of intention, this is your moment to shine.
Identifying Your Goal
The start of a New Year is like standing at the threshold of fresh potential. To step forward, the first task is identifying what you want to achieve. Is it a personal ambition? Do you want to improve your health? Are you ready to do what it takes to get to the “next level” of your profession? Is your desire to grow in a relationship with God, family or friends?
Scripture tells us that without a vision, the people perish. “Where there is no vision, the people perish: But he that keepeth the law, happy is he,” (Proverbs 29:18 – KJV). Setting goals is a way for us to get our vision in place and establish them. We begin with prayer and seeking the Lord. Often times believers will seek the Lord for a Word or two or even scripture to sustain them through the year. After seeking the Lord, write down what you feel you are to focus on. The goal you choose sets the tone for your journey ahead, so pick something that truly resonates with your heart and mind.
Setting SMART Goals
To transform your goals into reality, we turn to the tried-and-tested method of setting SMART goals. SMART, an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, is a framework that helps in creating clear and reachable goals. Here’s how each element can guide you:
- Specific: Your goal should be clear and specific, so you know exactly what you’re working toward. Instead of saying, “I want to be healthier,” specify what aspect of health you wish to improve, like “I want to lose 10 pounds.”
- Measurable: How will you track your progress? If your goal is measurable, you’ll have tangible evidence of your achievements. Continuing the example above, losing 10 pounds is a measurable goal.
- Achievable: Your goal should be realistic and attainable. It’s good to aim high, but not so high that the goal is out of reach. Setting an achievable goal means assessing your current situation and resources and then deciding if the goal is feasible.
- Relevant: Ensure your goal matters to you and aligns with your other objectives. A relevant goal should contribute toward your broader life plans and dreams.
- Time-bound: Every goal needs a deadline. This helps to prevent everyday tasks from taking priority over your long-term aspirations. A time-bound goal might be, “I aim to lose 10 pounds in three months.”
Embracing the SMART Framework
By embracing the SMART framework, you’re not just setting goals; you’re setting yourself up for success. This methodical approach brings structure and tractability to your objectives, making them more than just wishful thinking.
Using EFT to Boost Confidence
Now, let’s talk about stepping into this New Year not just with goals, but with confidence. This is where Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT, aka Tapping) is helpful. EFT, commonly known as tapping, is a psychological acupressure technique that supports emotional healing and personal performance. It involves tapping with your fingertips on specific meridian points on the body, while focusing on negative emotions or physical sensations, combined with voiced positive affirmations.
Here’s how EFT can complement your goal-setting journey:
- Overcome Self-Doubt: Often, our biggest barriers are internal. EFT can help in tackling feelings of self-doubt or fear of failure that might arise as you set out to achieve your goals.
- Maintain Focus: By using EFT to address stress or anxiety, you can maintain a clearer focus on your goals, allowing for more effective action and decision-making.
- Enhance Positive Thinking: Affirmations used in EFT can reinforce a positive mindset, crucial for staying motivated and overcoming challenges.
- Emotional Balance: EFT helps in achieving a state of emotional balance, making it easier to navigate the highs and lows of your goal-setting journey.
Conclusion
As we embark on this New Year, remember that setting goals is just the beginning. With praying and inviting the Lord in to help you, making them SMART goals, and implementing EFT into your routine, you equip yourself with a tool for emotional strength and confidence. Here’s to stepping into the New Year empowered and ready to achieve your dreams!
Deborah Scott CEFTC, CHC, CLC, Christian Life & Wellness Coach
