(NAPSA)—For many people, the start of a new yearis a timetoreflect on wherethey are, what they've accomplished—and whattheystill need to do. While nearly half of Americans make New Year's resolutions, only 8 percent report being successfulin achievingtheir goals, according to a study by The University of Scranton. There is hope, however, for those who want to turn their goodintentions into something they can be proudof, anytimeofthe year. Resolving to Succeed ‘Thereality is, change takes time and can bedifficult. There are advantages to thinking differently about goal-setting. Forexample, goals are not meantto be set only on January 1. Instead, make goal-setting a year-roundinitiative and include weekly, monthly and annual goals aspartofthe plan. While explicitly writing down your goals can increase your chances for suc cess tenfold, it’s not an automatic result. Instead, reconsider your approach to goal-setting and keep in mindthatperfectionisn’t realistic—strive for progress and improvement. Tipsfor Successful Goals Focus your efforts. Determine the outcome you want to achieve and focus your efforts toward that result. Some people come up with 10 goals and becomeso overwhelmed,they don’t achieve any of them. Concentrate your energy and your goals can comeinto focus. Think small. Avoid such grandiose You're more likely to attain your goals and goonto others you go after a few, small, achievable ones at ‘ime. Bespecific. The more distinct you make your goals, the clearer your path toward achieving them. When writing downgoals, include a timeline and how you plan to measure progress. Define whatthe goal means to you and howit will benefit you. Take care of yourself. Stop all-ornothing thinking. Remember,it's better to do something than to do nothing. Whenyou make anylife change, wheth- erit's going backto schoolorstarting a new job, you need to make sure you're practicingself-care at the same time. Stay motivated.It’s not how many times you get knocked down but how many times youget up.Failure is temporary, so don't beat yourself up. Instead, celebrate milestones of your progress along the way as you reach yourgoals. Learn More goals as losing 50 pounds.Instead, make Forfurtherfactsandtips, go to www. WaldenU.edu/resolutions. goals, such as losing five pounds in three months. If you aim for something small nizational psychologist and director of industrial and organizational psychology short-term goals that lead to long-term and achievable that encourages you to reach your ultimate goal, the journey will be more manageable and therefore moresuccessful. + Dr. LaCivita, industrial and orga- programs at Walden University, specializes in helping individuals and organizations unlock their potential, develop a clear vi- sion andestablish a path to sustainability.
