By Elvis Eromosele
In primary school, we were taught that a failure to plan was a plan to fail. Yet, as adults, many of us struggle to plan. The approaching New Year gives us an opportunity to change the narrative.
Here are my top tips for successful New Year planning in 2023.
You can thank me later.
Reflect on the past year: Take some time to think about what went well and what you could have done differently in the past year. This can help you identify areas where you want to focus your efforts in the new year. This is not a call for a pity party. It is a time of reflection to enable you to chart a course forward.
Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals: Consider what you want to accomplish in the new year, and use the SMART framework to turn those goals into specific, actionable steps. SMART is the way to go.
Make a plan: Once you have your goals in place, create a plan for how you will achieve them. This can include breaking down your goals into smaller, more manageable tasks, and setting deadlines for each step. Putting a timeline to the goals is the secret of workable, functional and successful goal setting.
Get organized: Take time to declutter your physical space and get your digital life in order. This can help you feel more focused and productive as you work towards your goals. Focus is the bedrock of a successful life.
Seek support: Don’t be afraid to ask for help or support from friends, family, or a professional if you need it. Surrounding yourself with people who can help you stay motivated and on track can greatly help as you work towards your goals. Collaboration is essential to progress.
Stay positive: Keep a positive attitude and don’t get discouraged if you encounter setbacks along the way. Remember that progress takes time and that it’s okay to adjust your plans as needed. Stay awake. Stay positive.
#makeplans #workyourplans #musings
Elvis Eromosele, a Corporate Communication professional and public affairs analyst, lives in Lagos.
