new
Pronunciation: \ˈnü
Function: adjective
1: having recently come into existence
2 a(1): having been seen, used, or known for a short time (2): unfamiliar b : being other than the former or old
3 : having been in a relationship or condition but a short time
4 a : beginning as the resumption or repetition of a previous act or thing b : made or become fresh c : relating to or being a new moon
5 : different from one of the same category that has existed previously
6 : of dissimilar origin and usually of superior quality
new. (2010). In Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary.
I don’t know about you but I am very much looking forward to this New Year! I’m ready to leave 2009 behind and embark on an unfamiliar journey in 2010. I’m glad that this year will be something other than the former or old. And I’m thrilled about a chance at a fresh start. For me, 2010 is about new beginnings. At almost 30, I’m beginning to know and accept myself like I hadn’t before. I’m beginning to better appreciate all of the love and blessings in my life. I’m beginning a new educational path and a new career. I have a lot of plans for this year. Shoot, I have a lot of plans for this decade! And it’s time to work these plans!
Goal Setting:
We did an exercise at my last job where we created goal posters by cutting out images and words from magazines that were reflective of the goals we had for the New Year. At first, I thought it was really cheesy and just a crafts project. But I learned that having my goals posted at my desk where I could see it every day really made a difference. So, I just made my 2010 goal poster and have it hanging on the wall beside my bed. My sister calls it a Prayer Map and that is just as fitting. It is to be a daily visual reminder of the things that I want to accomplish this year and motivation for me to make them a reality. It is not enough to just have a goals…putting them on paper gives them power. It’s a way to review and reflect on these goals and holds me accountable.
Guiding Principles:
What’s more important than having a goal is understanding the guiding principles from which your goals are formed. In looking at my goals, I see that they are all based on a couple of guiding principles:
• Faith – in God, in myself
• Health – physical, mental
• Education – academic, career
• Wealth – financial, spiritual
I am so glad that I was able to grasp the importance of the goal setting exercise and really utilize it in my life. I suggest that you do the same. What are your goals for 2010? What guiding principles drive you? Whatever they are, I pray that you have a blessed and abundant New Year!
Here's a great link to an article on personal goal setting: http://www.mindtools.com/page6.html
