Finance Roll

So another year has rolled around again. Resolutions for many are in full force and for others, resolutions are only a reminder of goals gone bad! If you are a resolution maker and happen to be someone who has chosen improved wellness as your goal, these tips may be helpful in creating and jumpstarting your plan. I use these tips with great success when working with clients around their health and wellness goals.

Begin by purchasing a beautiful journal and pen, dedicated to your personal wellness. Writing is an invaluable tool when making changes in your life. Find a comfy chair in a quiet location, pour a favorite drink and start writing your way to wellness for 2009.

1. Consider first what personal wellness means to you. Everyone has their own unique idea. For me it is to feel fit physically, mentally, spiritually and financially. Take a few minutes and reflect on this question before writing your answer

2. What areas do you want to improve? Finances, relationships, work, health, personal growth? Some may have one or two and others can have many. Just write them down without allowing judgment and overwhelm to come into the picture.

3. What goals do you want to reach in these particular areas? When you decide, write them down. Make sure they are realistic and specific. For example, to be out of debt by the end of 2008 or to have lost 10lbs by the end of April. Remember, keep them realistic so you don't get discouraged when you notice you may not meet your timeline. These are only guidelines, however having a specific goal to work towards can be very powerful.

4. Consider the areas you have chosen to concentrate on and determine what has already been working for you. You do not have to reinvent the wheel. If you are satisfied with your progress in a certain area you may only need to maintain it or vary it slightly. For example, if your main relationship is healthy but you want to make more time for it, maybe you just need to focus on choosing a specific time each week or month that will be dedicated to the relationship.

5. What roadblocks in the past have kept you from reaching your goals? Was time a factor? If so, look at what would work better. Your plan has to include activities you enjoy and are able to maintain without too much struggle. If you hate running but love walking, don't force yourself to run. Do what you love, not what you feel you should be doing.

6. After writing down your goals, start to develop a plan to get you there. As a coach, helping a client develop a plan is one of the first steps we take after they have set their goals. For instance, if exercise is something you have chosen, decide what type of activity you will do, as well as how often and for how long. A clear focus can make action so much easier.

7. What are the first action steps that need to be taken in order to carry out your plan? If you have decided to get out of debt, the first action may be to determine the total amount of debt you are carrying. Write them down.

8. Once you have determined what steps need to be taken, review them. Are they small enough so as not to overwhelm you? Be realistic. Taking baby steps toward your goal will increase your chances of achieving it. Remember, small and consistent steps will guarantee success.

9. If possible, work with a partner or group for support. Accountability is a great motivator towards achieving your goals and a partner can make it a lot more fun.

10. Most important...recognize accomplishments daily and make a commitment to improve the quality of your life.

Your level of personal wellness plays a huge part in your happiness, ability to deal with stress and fight disease. I challenge you to grab a pen and start writing your unique plan today. Consider what changes you need to make so your personal mantra can be...I feel ALIVE in 2009!

Article Written by Peggy Porter-The Success Coach for Mom Entrepreneurs.