Following part 1, here is part 2 on achieving new year goals.
Here are some easy tools I use for my goal setting and tracking.
I used to deploy some complicated process but now, it is easy for me.
- Write down a list
Just take down a pen and paper and write down what’s most important for the year.
Sometimes, I can be a bit fancier and use Canva to design them.
But it doesn’t matter how fancy it is, as long as you have list.
Here is my list from 2020.
- Track and review
Tracking is something I often don’t make time for and forget about it all later.
But tracking is important and can be quick. Tracking can help visualize how much I have achieved each day, each week.
Below is my 2023 read list tracking. It is simple but powerful, I kept a tracking record for each year and find enjoyment reviewing and seeing the list grow each year.
2. Break the goal down into digestible chunks
A goal can be overwhelming like my #30daywritingchallenge. Writing for 30 days is a big task and for me, it is tough.
However, I learnt to break it down into steps and chunks.
Step 1: The vision. I write down what I want to achieve in this goal, the more specific the better. This helps orient my approach. It is like sketching out how my house would look like if I were to build house. It gives me the visions, missions, guiding principles, values, limits, and expectations. My vision for this challenge is distilled in my challenge intro D0 blog.
Step 2: Brainstorm. I write down whatever ideas come to mind in sticky notes, attaching them to each of the 30 days. I added more ideas as they came to me to the pile.
Step 3: Set up writing nook. I chose the app Notion for my writing nook. I heard about Notion a while ago but haven’t formally used it. I really enjoy it now as it optimizes and organizes my writing process. It also links with WordPress making posting much more efficient.
Step 4: Write. Simply write whatever comes to my mind with that one topic that I picked for each day. I just write, without judgement, without stopping, let the words flow. This saves me a lot of time and I am able to reach 250-300 words easily.
Step 5: Revise. This might be the harder part. I re-read my first drafts and revise it so the sentences flow better for the readers. As you may see, I use short sentences, lots of breaks, and paragraphs to help you follow through easier.
Step 6: Post! This is a rewarding step, finally seeing my blogs come through to my website and to the world. I use Canva for a feature image. Notion and WordPress take care of the rest for me.
Imagine I do this for 30 blogs. It seems overwhelming but breaking it down to these steps makes it much more achievable. I strive to remove any clutter and bottleneck in the process so I can get to the Post stage quicker but more efficiently.
I might design different processes for different goals depending on how far I am along in achieving those goals.
3. Make sure I have the right tools to achieve the goals
For my weekly swimming goal, I am thinking of finding a swimming buddy.
For my reading goal, I want to make sure I have a physical book with me in my book bag so I can read during the train commute.
For my writing goal, I attach a ring of notecards and a pen to my crossbody bag so I can write anywhere any time ideas or thoughts cross my mind.
I set up my desk free of clutters so that I can get into the writing zone anytime I want.
I take care of my mental and physical health so I can go through my days easier.
4. Celebrate little wins
When I set out to read 50 books a year, I only achieved 5-10 books. But I celebrated anyways.
Achieving the exact goal is important, but what is more important is that I learn to set up the habits and routines to achieve those goals.
Those changes can take time, but as long as I strive to improve a little each day, that is enough.
So I celebrate my effort and small improvements.
I celebrate with myself. I am proud of my courage and discipline. I am proud that I did what I did amidst the busi-ness of life.
I hope these tips help you even just a little bit. Good luck on achieving your goals.
Thao NB
D6, Jan/06/2024
#30DaysWritingChallenge