4 easy ways to stick to your goals

It’s a new year, with a new you. At least that’s how the saying goes. Whether they are old dreams or new aspirations, lucky are those who are able to make them a reality. For most, dreams just remain dreams – unattainable and a cause for our lack of happiness. Why is this the case? We are naturally scared of the unfamiliar. Beginning to change can be very difficult, but continuing on the rugged path to transformation is the real challenge. You might have heard this a million times and here’s an extra one for the road ahead: Change doesn’t happen overnight. Here are a few EASY tricks I use to assure I stick to my goals, change for the better, and continue moving forward.

1. Know what you want, but more importantly WHY you want it.

Each of us is motivated by different driving factors. You might want your dream house so you can impress all your friends when you invite them over for game night. Alternatively, you might need your dream house to keep your children protected through the next cyclone. Convince yourself it’s a worthwhile goal that you need to work hard for. It is vital to remind yourself of the purpose of your sacrifice during the tough times that may come. It can be used as a key motivator in your journey to change.

2. Take S.M.A.R.T steps.

Here it is again. SMART goals here, SMART goals there. Specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound – you may have heard of it. It is important to apply the SMART framework to identify smaller goals that lead to the future you desire. The light at the end of the tunnel might be X amount of money to spend during retirement. Before you get there, you need to be able to set the tracks and save Y amount of money per year. Even prior to that, you need to set the foundation and set aside Z amount of money per month. It can even go per week, or per day, up to you – as long as it contributes to the bigger picture. Just keep it SMART. For example, I aim to save 20% of my monthly wage for the year 2019.

3. Keep it real and write it down.

It can be very easy to prioritise more pressing matters such as your 9 to 5 job and unending chores. However, some long-term goals, especially those related to your finances need your attention TODAY. Don’t lose track and write your overall goal together with the necessary steps to attain it. Put it somewhere you can always see it. Better yet, put it somewhere your spouse and the entire family can see it. You’ll be held accountable to achieve your goals and a few conversations around the topic can keep you glued in with what needs to be done.

4. Track your performance

It doesn’t have to be perfect the first time around. In fact, the steps you’ve taken are likely not as efficient as you would’ve hoped. It is imperative, however; that you are able to acknowledge which stages are effective and improve on those that aren’t. Take an honest look at how you’re progressing and assess if this will lead you to your end goal. Be proud of what you’ve accomplished and celebrate. Just don't take your foot off the gas pedal and remember what all the hard work and sacrifice is for.