The new year is often seen as a fresh start, an opportunity for individuals to make positive changes in their lives. However, coming up with a list of New Year’s resolutions is easy for many people, but sticking to those goals can be a challenge. This is true not only in personal pursuits but also in business. Sagehill Community Futures, located in Saskatchewan, works with rural entrepreneurs and small business owners to help them achieve their goals. Office Coordinator Jenny Glessman emphasizes the importance of setting clear, achievable, and specific goals. She advises against vague goals such as wanting to “grow my business,” and instead encourages setting measurable targets such as increasing business growth by a specific percentage.
Glessman further stresses the importance of keeping track of goals and setting deadlines to ensure progress is being made. Many people make the mistake of setting goals but then forget about them or neglect to monitor their progress. Marvin Ryder, an associate professor of marketing and entrepreneurship at the DeGroote School of Business, wishes more people would make New Year’s resolutions around their personal finances. His top recommendations include reducing debt and saving as much money as possible. He highlights the benefits of utilizing tax-free savings accounts (TFSAs) and the importance of being mindful of spending patterns, especially with the ease of electronic purchases through smartphones.
Both Glessman and Ryder agree that New Year’s resolutions often fail because the goals are not specific enough. Ryder stresses the importance of setting clear financial goals and tracking them regularly to ensure progress is being made. This can help individuals stay focused and motivated throughout the year. In addition to financial goals, setting personal and professional objectives can also be beneficial in achieving success. Having a clear plan of action, setting realistic targets, and regularly monitoring progress can lead to greater success in achieving New Year’s resolutions.
Setting goals and sticking to them requires commitment, dedication, and a strong sense of discipline. It is important for individuals to review their goals regularly, adjust them as needed, and celebrate their achievements along the way. By taking small steps towards their goals each day, individuals can gradually make progress and work towards achieving their long-term objectives. Reflecting on past successes and learning from past failures can also help individuals stay motivated and focused on their goals. Overall, setting specific, achievable, and measurable goals is key to making meaningful changes and improvements in both personal and professional life.
