Are you looking for an effective approach to writing New Year’s resolutions?
A year ago, I read about author Gretchen Rubin’s plan to write a list of 18 goals to accomplish during 2018.
The idea resonated with me, so I did it; and even better, I successfully completed nearly every one.
With that positive experience, it was a no-brainer to write “19 for 2019.”
Writing goals for the new year
In case you are new to this idea or need a refresher – allow me to summarize the basics:
Write a list of 19 things you want to get done before 2019 ends and put the list in a place you will see regularly, as both a reminder and a location to record what you have done.
When picking your 19 items, pick some that are small and others that are big, some that can be done once, others you do often, and others you do less frequently. Make some easy and others harder. Pick some you are eager to do and allow a few to be ones you have been putting off but you really want to accomplish.
Select goals in all categories: work related, relationship related, home related, and “other.” Mix it up.
If you are like me and are doing this for the second time, feel free to repeat goals from your 2018 list that are important to you and yet may not get accomplished without this accountability.
Barb’s “19 for 2019”:
Production, publication, and marketing of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Guide to Nutrition Communication.
Collect ideas for a companion online resource for instructors and explore ways to create CEUs to complement the book.
Polish my signature speeches and workshops.
Give at least 12 speeches during 2019, including at least two for non-nutrition professional audiences.
Up my game in social media: Daily posts and comments; increase use of hashtags; experiment with using a scheduler; write a blog about what I learn; create a video at least once a month.
Explore podcasting: listen to a variety, consider being a guest on 1-2 RDN podcasts.
Feature a guest blog at least once every 2 months.
Complete reorganization of home and office file storage.
Begin digitizing recipes and begin organizing digital photos into annual memory books.
Get new drapes for the living room.
Get new deck furniture that accommodates large gatherings.
Invite neighbors to dinner in our home at least 10 out of 12 months.
Host another neighborhood block party.
Make daily memories during our stay at vacation home in Florida in February.
Take a 40th anniversary mini vacation.
Explore 1-2 areas of ministry in our new church.
Help son Chris move into an apartment in Indianapolis.
Complete funeral planning for our mothers.
Increase the frequency, intensity, and duration of my workouts.
Brainstorm your list. Write it down. Share with others.
Brainstorm your own list of “19 for 2019.” Be sure to write them down because written goals are more likely to be accomplished than unwritten ones. Share one or more of your goals in the comments.
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.”
~ Abraham Lincoln
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