5 Secrets to Staying Committed to New Year's Resolutions for Work

A new year is upon us, which means that once again it’s time to take a hard look at our lives and act fearlessly by setting resolutions. Sure, we all have something we want to better about ourselves, especially when it comes to our careers.

Whether it’s learning something new or accomplishing a specific goal (e.g., save more money, network with more coworkers in other departments, finish that “side project” you keep putting aside), this is the time to put our minds to it. It’s now or never, right?

For those of you who resolved your goals from this last year, we salute you. But if you’re like most people who set goals and have a difficult time keeping at them, here are a few suggestions for sticking to your plans this time around:

1. Put it in handwriting

We live in a world of constant distractions and to-do lists. Lists of projects, groceries, birthdays, errands, important dates, etc.

Find a special place to write down your goals, like a journal or a sticky note on your monitor. Writing down your goals helps you commit to your actions and stay focused, according to this article by Mental Floss.

2. Keep it simple

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The good old "quality over quantity" debate. There are a million things we want to do and only 24 hours in a day to do them, or 40 hours in the workweek. Pick one goal at a time, and don’t jump to the next goal until you finish it. You’re more likely to complete the first one if you give it your all.

3. Be SMART

Everyone stresses SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-sensitive). That’s because this stuff actually works. Don’t set yourself up for failure. Be specific with both your and your employees’ expectations to get the most accuracy out of your goals.

4. Find a cheerleader

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Partner up with a coworker and check each other’s progress each week. This will make your goal more official, and you’ll be more accountable for your actions. Not only that, but this goal partner will also help encourage you on the tough days, and you’ll do the same for them.

5. Set an incentive

Give yourself a treat to look forward to. Nailed that report for your boss before deadline? How about that one-hour massage? If you’re setting goals for your staff, celebrate their accomplishments through various employee recognition ideas. As the saying goes: all for one and one for all.

Did we miss any tips? If so, let us know in the comments section below!

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