I have to admit, I'm a bit jaded on the whole NY Resolution thing, mostly because what begin as grand intentions very rarely evolve into long-term plans or actions. Case in point: ever notice how busy the gym is from January to March? Filled with clueless people wandering around like they're lost? By April, the gym is back to the regulars, and all the "New Years' Resolutioners" have gone back to their televisions and couches. Am I being too harsh? Perhaps. But it's been my observation that very few of those people actually stick to their resolution plan for more than a month or two. (And the ones who actually DO continue with their resolutions? I salute you!)
This is the first time I've put this much thought into a "NY Resolution." Usually, my "resolutions" are things like "I will swear less this year," or "I will give more to those in need." While those statements are good intentions, they're usually quickly forgotten and abandoned.
This is the first time I've put this much thought into a "NY Resolution." Usually, my "resolutions" are things like "I will swear less this year," or "I will give more to those in need." While those statements are good intentions, they're usually quickly forgotten and abandoned.
Because of my negative feelings about NY Resolutions, I was going to write about how I'm going to make GOALS, not RESOLUTIONS for this year. So I looked up the words "goal" and "resolution." And guess what I discovered? BOTH terms describe my plans for 2011!
2. a resolve or determination: to make a firm resolution to do something.
3. the act of resolving or determining upon an action or course of action, method, procedure, etc.
4. the mental state or quality of being resolved or resolute; firmness of purpose.
5. the act or process of resolving or separating into constituent or elementary parts.
Synonyms
resolve, determination, perseverance, tenacity; strength, fortitude.
Goal
the result or achievement toward which effort is directed; aim; end.
Synonyms
1. target; purpose, object, objective, intent, intention. 2. finish.
Some may see these two words as synonymous; however, I see them as completely different. "Resolution" focuses more on the process, while "goal" focuses more on the end result. And yet, these terms used together create a strong action plan.
Operation Pro
I've already started this plan, but 2011 will bring in the increased level of intensity, hard work, and yes, suffering (don't get me started on this term; that's a whole 'nother debate for a different day). My "resolution" for Operation Pro involves a course of action, a plan and process, and a firmness of purpose, or tenacity, if you will. My "goal" is to win my Pro card at Team Universe.
I'm excited about this coming year, because I feel I finally have a strong action plan and a set timeline to follow (trust me - this is crucial for us planner-type people).
What are your resolutions and goals?
When you're thinking of what you want to achieve and how you want to achieve it in 2011, remember to think about a course of action and a plan. So many resolutions fail because they're simple statements, which is the state of mind, but they lack a plan of action and process. If a simple plan and milestones are set, it's much easier to achieve the end result, or the goal.
Here's to a healthy, successful, and exciting new year, filled with friends, family, and fun!