New Year’s Resolutions for Newcomers
By This article talks about:
- well formed outcomes
- describing and visualising goals
- resources needed and the benefits
As I have lived in several different countries, I understand how moving to a new destination can be both exciting and daunting.
That’s why the New Year is especially significant – because by making New Year’s resolutions that work, you can plan and carve out the life you want in your new environment.
New Year’s resolutions that work? Did I hear a snigger?
Oh, you are probably thinking of the survey which revealed that of those who set New Year’s resolutions, the success rate can be very low. At least 50% of people abandon their goals by the end of January, and up to 90% by the end of the first quarter.
And perhaps you may also have had some personal experience of less than successful New Year’s resolutions?
So what’s the key to setting and achieving goals on a consistent basis?
Surely there must be a better way than what most people are using. Enter well formed outcomes.
Well Formed Outcomes is similar yet more effective than regular ‘goal setting’ and is modelled on people who successfully achieve their outcomes on a regular basis.
The seven conditions of a well formed outcome are:
1. Describe what you want in positive terms
For example, if one of your goals is to “not be lonely”, change it to “create new friendships”. Key here is if you don’t want something ask yourself what it is you want instead.
2. Is it achievable?
Ask yourself if any other human been able to create new friendships. If yes, you meet this criterion.
3. What sensory based evidence will you accept as having reached your target?
In other words, what might you see, touch or hear that act as proof. Taking the above example, this could mean seeing yourself attend various networking functions, holding a stack of business cards from people you have met or hearing the laughter of friends around your dinner table.
4. Is getting the outcome within your control?
Getting yourself to new people within your control but expecting people to introduce themselves to you isn’t. You can do everything else to create the probability of getting them to introduce themselves to you, for instance, smiling at them, approaching them first, and introducing yourself. Chances are they would reciprocate.
5. Can you accept the cost and consequences of achieving your outcome?
Here, consider time, money, the environment and people around you who may be affected.
6. Do you have all the resources needed?
This includes your internal and external resources such as skills, beliefs, time, money, expertise, etc. If you don’t have the necessary resources, how can you get them?
7. If you could have the outcome now, would you take it?
Once you have met the above conditions, by all means use other techniques such as writing down your goals, creating a more detailed action plan and engaging all your senses to imagine what it would be like to achieve your outcome.
I hope the above suggestions will help you achieve compelling outcomes in the new year!
First Published: 13 December 2004
Last Update: 29 December 2016
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