Planning makes it easier to achieve goals

“But the noble man makes noble plans.”

— Isaiah 32:8 (NIV)

Why not start the new year off with a bang?

I’m not talking about lighting a firecracker or setting off a pistol. I’m referring to taking some powerful steps to move forward. B-A-N-G can be our acronym meaning: Begin A New Goal.

The beginning of a new year is often a time we use to start fresh. As a nurse, I have helped many patients move forward utilizing goal planning.

First, establish your goal. State what you want to change or accomplish. Make your goal realistic. If you set your sights too high, you may fail before you begin. An example is, if you want to lose 100 lbs., start off with a small goal of 10-20 lbs. and work from there.

The next step in meeting a goal is to examine the problems you are having that keep you from fulfilling it. If your goal is better time management, you may look at how organized you are or what type of interruptions or activities are stealing away your time.

For example, setting a time to answer emails could help eliminate constant email checks that disrupt your train of thought. Spending too much time on conversations could be a stealer. Learning to cut them short by establishing time limits to talk and sticking to the point of the conversation could help.

The next step in achieving your goal is implementing your plan.

Once you’ve identified the problems and solutions, start implementing the solutions to the problems. You might want to make a list of what you plan to do, so you can refer to it from time to time.

The last step is to constantly evaluate if and how you are meeting your goal.

If you’re not making progress, go back to your problem list and look at what might be getting in your way. Also, find a friend, spouse or coach who will help you stay accountable to meet your goal.

There’s nothing like a good support system to keep you from giving up. Wise planning can make all the difference in reaching your goal.

ŸAnnettee Budzban is a Christian author, speaker, life coach and nurse. Start your year with some tangible goals. Annettee will be presenting, “Goal Writing is the Blueprint to Your Dreams” from 3-4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, at Panera Bread in Round Lake Beach. Due to limited seating, registration is suggested. Email Annetteebudzban@aol.com