Make it happen: Turning your resolutions into plans

We all know how it goes.
In the heady haze of the New Year celebrations, you announce that you're going to lose weight, quit smoking, get fit, or read more books.
Now that February is well upon us, how are you going with those resolutions? Have you had success, or are they a feint and distant memory?

The reason why most resolutions never happen, is because they aren't converted into plans. A simple statement such as "I want to lose weight," is far too vague. Instead, take a few simple steps to turn this resolution into a plan and actually make it happen.

Making it happen

We'll use the weight loss example to convert this resolution into a plan. The same principles apply no matter what your aim is, whether business or personal. There are a few questions you need to answer.

Why do you want to do this? Without answering this fundamental question, you may as well not bother with the rest of it. You need to answer this question for yourself, very honestly. When sticking to your plan becomes challenging, this is the thought that you need to come back to. It needs to be compelling and motivating. You need to know before you start that you actually want this outcome and why. Otherwise, it will be just another empty resolution.

How much weight do you want to lose? You need to be specific with the numbers. Your progress needs to be measurable. Base this on a realistic figure. In this example, seek medical advice if need be to work out what is reasonable and realistic.

When do you want to do this by?  Set a target date. You've decided you need to lose x kilos - by when? How much will you lose per week? What are your interim milestones. Set up a graph or chart to track your progress.

How will you do it? Now that you are a bit clearer about what you actually want to achieve, work out the steps you will take to get there. In this example it could be a whole range of things involving nutrition, exercise, motivation or professional advice. Again, when creating your plan, be specific and allocate time.


How will you know you have achieved your target? If you've made specific goals and plans, as outlined above, then this part will be easy.

How will you cope with obstacles and challenges? Setting interim milestones makes it easier to track your progress. If obstacles come up, or progress is off track, you can re-set your plan to suit without losing sight of the ultimate outcome. Thinking in advance about what some of these obstacles might be will make it easier to overcome them when they arise.

How will you reward yourself? Don't underestimate the power of an incentive. While achieving your aim is a reward in itself, other incentives can also help you when challenges arise. In this weight loss example, a food based reward is probably not the best. How about a new dress, or a weekend away?

What were your resolutions? Or have you given up making them?
Take some time now to rethink your plans, before the year starts to disappear.