The beginning of a new year, the high aspirations for what you want to achieve in life in the coming 365 days. The gyms are flooded with people come January only to slowly fade back to the normal bustle after a few months. I have been guilty of this, and not just with working out. Notice I haven’t said the word resolution. That word has no meaning to me now and promotes a short duration of time. Goals are always happening and are not restricted to January 1.

Now, I am not claiming that I have been consistent with my goal setting and these processes but I have found that they have lasted longer than other methods I have tried. The first part is setting time aside to reflect on what you want. That time usually happens when I am out for a walk. I was inspired by a recent snow storm and want to share in hopes it can help motivate you in your business, art, and life. This is the first in a series of posts about the methods I am going to be implementing this year.

Goal Words

A quick reminder of your intentions. I have tried this technique the past few years with moderate success but I like the simplicity and quick connection to the intent. The premise I got from reading Chris Brogan’s Blog. He is an entrepreneur, speaker, writer, among other things, whom I have been following for many years now. He started this practice back in 2006. The idea is to think of 3 words that will be triggers for your goals and guide you to be your best all year. The key is triggering action. Which I didn’t quite get when I tried this the first few times.

Personally, this works because I like short to the point directions that can be a kick in the butt I need to get out of the procrastination rut. Being self-employed has been a HUGE adjustment for me. This technique has been one of the most effective for my business and creativity as a photographer. Seeing and telling myself one word can get me moving to do things that need to get done. I am hoping this will help with motivating myself and be more focused.

This year I am going with the words. They seem simple but are meant to be used to kick myself in the pants to move on my goals.

Commit – Commit myself and skills to others. My work, my passions, and my pursuits. Commit to plans. Commit to myself.

Work – Do the work. Everything worth pursuing requires work.

Out – Get outside more, get out of my comfort zone.