Goal Setting for the Year Ahead

Written by Professional Academy Digital Marketing Apprentice Estelle Naderi

It’s that time of year again, when people begin to plan what they are going to do during the next year. Maybe they’re thinking about trying a new experience, changing or moving up in their career, taking up a new skill or developing those they have, perhaps finishing a qualification or progressing onto another one. But, according to Forbes, only 8% of people actually stick to their new year’s resolutions and achieve their goals. So, we thought we’d give you some tips on how to plan the goals you want to achieve in the upcoming year!

Have Fun!

A lot of people can feel like they have failed if they do not stick to their new year’s resolutions, but you shouldn’t! Having fun with the goals that you have picked can make you more likely to stick to them! For instance, if your goal is to get healthier and fitter in the new year then why not invite a friend to do it with you? It can be a fun thing to do together, and can also be motivation for you both. 

Try Something New!

A new year is a great way to try something new, whether it’s something that you’ve always wanted to do or something you think you’d enjoy. Think about exploring different things, and once you’ve tried if, if you don’t like it at least you’ve given it a go!

Be Realistic

If you set your goals too high, then they can be unrealistic and unachievable, which can often mean that you will be less likely to continue with them as goals as the year goes on. If someone wanted to save £600 a month but only earned £1000, it could be both unrealistic and unachievable. Setting your goal too high may discourage you from saving anything at all.

Just Do It!

Every year, people make new year’s resolutions that they don’t stick to (me included). If you are going to give yourself goals, then just do it! If you think you will struggle to achieve your goals on your own, as I said above, why not invite a friend along? You might find they are trying to achieve the same goal, and many can be turned off to the idea of doing something on their own, so you can encourage and motivate each other (as well as, maybe, doing something new along the way).

Forget About Deadlines!

Don’t worry about sticking to a certain time frame to do it. Although they are new year’s resolutions, working on all your goals at the same time may become draining and unmotivating. Taking them one at a time may help ease you into successfully fulfilling all the goals you have set out to achieve.

If you've enjoyed this blog then why not check out our infographics on how to create a Personal Development Plan, What SMART Goals are, and How to Ace an Interview to help you with your Personal Development for the new year!

If you’re interested in goal setting and personal development, why not check out our blog and infographic on SMART goals, and SMART-ER goals . Professional Academy also offer qualifications in Sales, Marketing, Management and Digital Marketing to help you achieve your new year’s goals and progress with your personal development, so why not speak to a qualifications advisor or download our Prospectus today.