2020 is over (whewww!) and it’s time for a fresh start. So, let’s take 2021 head-on and set goals for the new year. It’s okay if you didn’t achieve all your 2020 goals, we all made it through the year and that’s what really matters. It’s time for new goals, a new start, and a new outlook.

Setting goals will give you confidence, generate enthusiasm, and give you something to work towards and look forward to this year. The feeling of progressing towards an end goal and making the impossible seem possible helps build a sense of accomplishment, pride, and fulfillment.

For those who are looking for that fresh start this year and don’t know where to being when setting 2021 goals, follow these six quick and easy guidelines that will lead you to set up achievable goals for the new year.

DETERMINE WHAT CATEGORY OF 2021 GOALS YOU WANT TO SET

Decide what you want to focus on this year. Whether it is fitness goals, relationship goals, finance goals, career goals, family goals, or all of the above, take control of your life and decide to focus on exactly what you want to spend your time and energy on in 2021.

BE REALISTIC

Set yourself up for success and do not set any 2021 goals that you are not realistically able to achieve. If you aren’t realistic with your goals, how will you achieve them and how will you improve on what you need to work on? It’s also important to note that even if things don’t go as planned (as we all saw in 2020) you can pivot, adjust, and alter goals. Because life happens.

SET A TIMELINE

Make a plan and divide up sections of your goal for each month, quarter, or half of the year, giving yourself mini goals to work on, paving a road to the ultimate goal. Setting a timeline will allow you to work towards something and give you the motivation to finish.

For example, if you plan to read 24 books this year, set a goal to read 2 books per month, 6 books a quarter, or 12 books in the first half of the month. Giving yourself deadlines will help you manage and achieve your goal. Ask yourself how long it will take to achieve the goal and make progress each month.

DON’T COMPARE YOURSELF TO OTHERS

Do not compare yourself to anyone. As an individual, your goals will not be the same as your brother, sister, or best friend. When setting goals, think about what you want to accomplish, not something that you think you need to accomplish because a friend or family member is working towards that goal.

WRITE IT DOWN

When you are creating 2021 goals, make a point to write them down so they are set in stone. Put them in your new 2021 planner, keep them in your notes in your phone or save a document on your computer that you can check in on every so often.

CHOOSE SMART GOALS

Indeed defines SMART goals as an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-based. Each element of the SMART framework works together to create a goal that is carefully planned, clear and trackable.

S – Specific: the more specific your goal is, the more understanding you will have on how you will achieve it

M – Measurable: define what evidence will prove you’re making progress and re-evaluate when necessary

A – Attainable: make sure you can accomplish the 2021 goals within reason and a realistic timeframe

R – Relevant: each goal should align with your personal values and long term goals

T – Time-based: set an end date. This will keep you motivated and working towards an end goal