Can I Get There From Here?

Every year, around this time, I develop my goals for the upcoming new year.  This prompt is asking me to take those ideas and attach an action to the goal.

December 13 – Action.  When it comes to aspirations, it’s not about ideas. It’s about making ideas happen. What’s your next step? (Author: Scott Belsky)

 An effective goal must have an action or actions with it.  It must be measurable so that we can evaluate whether or not it's been accomplished.  It also helps to have a time frame attached to the goals and actions as well.

1.  Health.  For years, like many other folks, I've listed losing weight as a goal for the new year.  I've shot for losing a certain amount of pounds, inches, and sizes.  I've tried to do it like:  2 pounds per week, 10 pounds per month, or 60 pounds in six months.  So, this year, I'm trying something new.  I purchased a zebra- print, one-piece bathing suit from Old Navy for $1.  I have it hanging in my closet.  My goal for 2011 is to 'fit' in the bathing suit by 6/1/2011.  I also bought a nice pair of jeans two years ago and I would love to fit into them by September 2011. 

2.  Writing.  For years, I've wanted to write a book.  I have many different ideas, I have written them down.  They have been hanging over my head like a monkey on my back.  Yes, I've made great strides in writing my blog this year.  And, while I signed up for NANOWRIMO I didn't type one word.  So, for 2011, I plan to have at least a total of 365 entries in my blog.  I plan to fully participate in NANOWRIMO; this means writing 50,000 words in the month of November.  I also plan to write my first novel by December 31, 2011.

3.  Income.  With the combined efforts from selling AVON, playing the lottery (ha, ha), writing, and 'other ventures' I would like to make more than enough money each month to pay for our fixed expenses.  This is a vague goal, yes, I know, but it is a difficult one to commit to since our economy is still in shambles.  Ideally, in order to achieve this goal, I would need to get a salaried job in order to realistically accomplish this.  I just hate the idea of putting on my 'game face' in order to be 'accepted' in the 'real' world.  I just want to be myself but the pressure of money trumps my selfishness.  This does not sound like a measurable goal as it is written so I may have to work on tightening up this one.

I probably should have more goals and visions for my future.  As it stands now, I'd rather have a handful of important, achievable goals that on their own will make a significant impact on me and my loved ones in 2011.