The bad news? One twelfth of the year is gone already.

The good news? You’re not alone, you’ve got eleven more months to achieve your goals, and I’ve got some tips to help you out:

1. Are your goals specific and measurable? In other words, do you know what success will look and feel like? Do you know how you will know when you are done? If not, develop a clear picture of success ASAP.
2. Are your goals broken down into manageable parts so you can start feeling some success soon? Try writing a series of statements something like this:”I will {feel good} when I’ve achieved {this tangible outcome} by {this date}.(Work backwards to set the dates.) If those intermediate tangible outcomes add up to success, you’ve got a great plan and the ability to see and celebrate your progress.
3. Have you taken a good, hard, honest look at the obstacles you face? What will make achieving your goal hard for you?
4. Have you identified specific ways to overcome those obstacles? Do you need data, information, expertise, a method, help from others, someone to hold you accountable, or “just” a dose of courage? Be sure your series of intermediate tangible outcomes includes the steps necessary to overcome the obstacles.
5. Are you clear about the benefits of achieving your goals? If the goals aren’t motivating and the effort isn’t fun, do you know how you will reward yourself when each intermediate outcome is nailed?

Don’t wait until we’re two down, ten to go! Act now. Get help if you’re stuck. The longer you wait, the bigger the miracle required to get back on track.