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You’ve made your resolutions and have set your goals. They are specific, measurable and actionable – for example, “lose ten pounds by March 26, 2012.” It is very important that you stay focused on your top goals and that you have an action plan to ensure movement towards the attainment of your objectives. In the weight-loss example, your action plan may include:

• Registering for a gym membership
• Scheduling a standing time/meeting with yourself to go to the gym
• Showing up at the gym (very important J)
• Uploading upbeat music to your iPod to increase your enjoyment
• Setting up a weekly hair appointment to whip your hair back into shape

Keep Your Goals with You

To stay focused, write down your top five goals on a small brightly colored notecard (cut the card if you must) and keep it in your wallet or a small notebook that you keep with you at all times.If you are using the “small notebook” approach, tape the colored card with your goals near the front of the notebook so that it is easy to find. Each day, take a look at your goals as you create your “to-do-list” for the day. Your activities over the course of the week should align with the goals that you have set for yourself. If they don’t, you are on the road to derailment of your goals. To ensure success, make the necessary changes to bring your activities into alignment with your goals.

Take Small Steps and Celebrate!

Everyone likes to feel a sense of accomplishment. Break up your activities into small ones. Going back to our weigh-loss example, celebrate success after each action item. “ Today I registered for the gym. Check!” The hardest part is getting started; so don’t trivialize that first accomplishment. Call and tell a friend. Spend some time perusing the gym website. Visualize the healthier version of your body ten pounds lighter, read inspirational stories about others who have lost weight and are leading healthy lives. Celebrating step one (registering for the gym) will energize you for step two – actually going to the gym!

Congratulations!

Ultimately, attainment of your goals will be determined by your ability to stay focused and execute your plan. With these tips, I know that you will be successful; so congratulations on your achievements!

My best to you,

Juliette Mayers, Author,“A Black Woman’s Guide to Networking, Advance Your Career. Grow Your Business!”  Learn more at

www.juliettemayers.com/books

You can reach me at Juliette@juliettemayers.com