The best thing about the New Year is that it seduces us with the perception of the opportunity to start with a clean slate.  We reflect on the past, set goals, and look towards the future. How exhilarating! The truth is, the past can be messy and its consequences can present hurdles as we try to meet our goals. Knowing that the journey can be far for some goals, can promote the feeling of discouragement.  With only a few days into a new year, I’m sure some of you can relate to removing a goal off your list because of discouragement. This has happened to me many times, where I felt helpless within a week of feeling so motivated. I would like to share with you 5 ways that you can stay committed when you really don’t feel like it.

Tell someone about it

But not just anyone. Word of mouth is everything, especially when you involve the right people. Reaching out and establishing a support system can be very helpful. You might already have an idea of a person that you would like to hold you accountable. Someone that you can trust to tell you the truth. On the other hand, some goals might be a bit too personal to involve anyone that you know. Perhaps you might want to a support group of some kind could help in these cases. For leaders, it might not be a bad idea to have some professional goals for your specific area, and share them with those you lead (and who lead you) so that they can support you. Regardless of where you fall, we all need someone rooting for us, our own personal cheer section helping to motivate us on each step towards our goals.

Set aside time (preferably the first part of each day)

I’m a firm believer and getting the important things done first. Your goals are very important to you otherwise you wouldn’t have wrote them down. Giving these very important goals the best chunk of time out of your day is the best thing you can do. The first part of your day is filled with creative and innovative energy, because it hasn’t yet been tainted with a barrage of email, voicemail, and other “to-do” lists. So, find the time to do even if it is a little portion of your goals during this time each and every day. You’ll find yourself moving to completion in no time!

Celebrate success on every goal met (no matter how small)

Your success should be celebrated, every single one. Make sure that on your road to completing your goals, you celebrate the small wins along the way. When you set your mind to do something new you are tapping into your creative self. We should always give ourselves a pat on the back when we bring out our creative juices and show the world that we have added a little spice into the world.

Reality check (when real life happens)

Mistakes do happen. The past did exist at some point, and the consequences of the past are still milling about. Don’t let that stop you with putting your best foot forward. No one is perfect. The best thing is knowing that can move on. If you make a mistake, just know that there is another day that you can start fresh.

Move forward and do not look back

Keeping progressing forward, even if you have setbacks. Don’t let one mistake or one regret hold you back from looking forward. You may find yourself wanting to give up, without courage to look the next day in the eye. If that is you, know that you can do what you set your mind to. One baby step at a time, you can meet your goal.

Have you ever stuck with doing something even though you didn’t want to? I would love to hear your stories!