5 golden questions to set achievable goals for 2020

As 2020 approaches, it's time to sit yourself down and start to set goals for next year. After all, don't they all say that failing to plan is planning to fail? 

To accomplish your goals, however, you need to know how to set them. This means achievable ones that you really care about. You can't simply say, "I want" and know that it is super challenging to reach. Here are 5 golden questions for you to ask yourself to help you formulate goals that you might actually accomplish for next year!

1) What motivates you? 

It is always easier to find motivation when you are working towards something you truly care about. Some identify fitness, recognition, environmental impact and even money. By uncovering your motivations, you will be able to figure out what really matters to you and why, and start to build a more joyful life.

The thing about questioning your motivation — or anyone else’s — is that you need to be honest with yourself. Aligning yourself around what you think should motivate you is counterproductive. Be true to you. 

2) Are they SMART?

Wait, we aren't judging your intelligence. SMART goals are a thing! It stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. If you haven't heard of this framework to get organised, read on. 

Specific What will be accomplished? What steps will you take?

Measurable How can you track your progress? 

Achievable Is the goal doable? This is a great exercise to know your abilities!

Relevant Ask yourself why the result important to you

Time-Bound What is the time frame for accomplishing the goal?

3) Are you writing them down?

It might seem silly to actually write down your goals (digitally or on good ol' post-its!) but the physical act of writing them down makes them real and tangible. You have no excuse for forgetting about it! As you write, use the word "will" instead of "would like to" or "might." Post your goals in visible places (mirrors, phone, instagram posts!) to remind yourself every day of what it is you intend to do. 

4) Do you have an action plan?

It is easy to lose the motivation once you start the new year, so it is useful to start formulating an action plan with clearly defined timelines. For example, your goal for 2020 is to become a vegan. You can commit to beginning January with meat-free Mondays and Fridays, and increase the days in the months after till you are finally comfortable with the full transition by say June. Be realistic and pace yourself - this is the only way to complete the race. Do not rush yourself into anything. 

5) How can you set reminders?

Sticking to goals is hard, so it is good to build in reminders to help yourself stay focused. The action plan you have set for yourself at the start of the year can change with situations so remember to stay nimble and adaptable. 

Goals are achievable. Before you make a plan to achieve them though, they will remain as mere dreams. So go get 'em tiger!