Got goals to achieve? We are a couple months down in the new year. Did you set goals for the new year? If you did, go ahead and give yourself a high five. It's not easy to want to change things about yourself; we are creatures of habit and comfort. But, you've set goals, whatever they may be, and now the work starts.  

This blog will look at the traditional way of goal setting but then challenge you to look at things differently by providing a fresh take on it all. We all have goals to achieve and deserve to be WILDLY successful at achieving those goals. 

The Traditional Way of Goal Setting 

Perhaps you're familiar with the traditional way to set goals, or maybe you're not. The traditional way of goal setting, or SMART for short, stands for:

• Specific 

• Measurable

• Achievable

• Relevant & Realistic 

• Time-bound

The advantage of using the SMART method is that it helps you be clear on the goals to achieve while also providing a framework to track and measure your progress. When goals are specific and not overly broad, you know what you are working towards. Also, by establishing measurable parameters such as deadlines, you can track your progress and determine the ultimate success of your efforts.

While this method has been around for a while, and many have used it successfully, it does come with limitations. Setting specific, achievable, and realistic goals while knowing how to measure them sounds easy enough. Still, the SMART method must account for the challenges in maintaining motivation through each benchmark to see yourself through to the finish line.

We all know the statistics on even New Year's resolutions are not the most favorable. When you look at the low success rate of New Year's resolutions, most lose interest, or the excitement of a shiny new goal wears off. Motivation can be a fickle thing. Is the SMART method right for you, or do you need a fresh take to achieve your goals? 

A Fresh Take on Goal Setting

As cliche as the saying "out with the old and in with the new" is, it might just be applicable here. The traditional way of goal setting has advantages, but it's not the only way. There has been a lot said about the concept of goal setting. Everyone talks about it, especially at the beginning of the new year. How, then, could there be a fresh take on goal setting? Well, it comes down to two things - setting goals in a manner that works for you and not relying on motivation to get you through to the finish line. 

Do What Works for You 

The Rise Leadership Circle recorded a podcast: A New Way Of Thinking About Goal Setting In 2024! - Rise Leadership Circle. In it, Lisa Liimatta touches base on the abundance of methods for goal setting, which can be overwhelming for many people. It's not about picking the right process; it is choosing the right method for you. What will work best for you will not necessarily work for someone else. The Rise Leadership Circle helps their clients think about their goals in new and different ways, helping them reach them in a way that works for them. If you want more support with your goal setting or living your best life, you can learn more about working with them here.   

Don't Rely on Motivation Alone 

Merriam-Webster defines motivation as the condition of being motivated. But where does our motivation come from? Trevor Folker, co-owner of MVMT Performance & Rehabilitation, delves into this topic on Episode 72 of their Green Bay Health Project podcast. He highlights that relying solely on motivation may not be optimal for achieving specific goals.

Trevor views motivation as the initial spark that excites us about our goals. However, he emphasizes the need for more than just motivation, which can be fleeting and inconsistent. To sustain progress, Trevor recommends leaning on discipline, understanding your why, and cultivating good habits. He says, "When your goals align with your purpose, motivation transforms into unwavering determination." Deep reflection on your goals, purpose, and habits is crucial. Trevor suggests resources like "Atomic Habits" by James Clear and "Start With Why" by Simon Sinek. 

The Power of Community 

Remember that pursuing your goals doesn't have to be a solitary endeavor. Having a supportive community where the exchange of goals and progress provides encouragement and creates a sense of accountability can play a pivotal role. Supportive communities offer valuable tools, such as networking events, workshops, resource sharing, and facilitating goal achievement. If you've been looking for such a community, you would benefit from a coworking space. If you're searching for such a community, consider the advantages of joining a coworking space. In the Green Bay and surrounding area, The Nest Cowork + Club is a 24/7 workspace designed for women, providing an environment for productivity, networking, and genuine connections. Explore the benefits of a Nest membership here. 

You've Got Goals to Achieve! 

However, you've decided to go after your goals; remember that success lies in finding what works best for you. While methods like SMART offer a set framework, they may need to address the challenges of maintaining motivation through to the end. Think deeply about why you've set your goals and work on cultivating good habits for sustainable progress. Also, take into account the power of community support. Surrounding yourself with a supportive network can provide encouragement, accountability, and valuable resources to aid you on your path to success. At The Nest Cowork + Club we want to be a part of that journey with you and would love to have you as one of our #nestiebestites. Join today!