Goal Setting by Chayli Duerson

Each year we anticipate the holidays, spend time with loved ones and make plans for new goals. Then suddenly it’s January 2nd, and we rethink our New Year's resolution when eyeing the left-over Christmas candy. With 80% of people giving up their New Year's resolutions by March, what can we do to be more successful?  

Set SMART goals. Goals that are:

• Specific

• Measurable

• Achievable

• Relevant

• Time-bound

How can we hit our goals in 2023? 

Start now!  Mentally, January 1 may not be the best day to start chasing a new goal. For me, that is not only a national holiday, but my husband's birthday. One of my goals is to Boston Qualify this year in one of my marathons, so I began training before January so it would become a habit by the time the new year rolls around. But . . . today is never too late.

Speaking of starting today: Did you know you can support T.R.A.C. and T.R.A.C.life by giving today?   

Automating tasks make goals more achievable. Get up at the same time every day, save time with a dishwasher, or prep food one day a week. Instead of writing checks, set up online bill pay or automatic payments. And while you are at it, you can set up an automatic monthly, recurring donation to Teen Reach.

Finally, when planning goals for 2023, passion is key. Whether the goal is something professionally, personally, physically, mentally, or spiritually, make it fun!

Proverbs 16:3 says, "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish you plans." Each day we work toward a goal is a win!

Happy New Year and God Bless in 2023.