Happy New Year! And your resolution is?

I read an article that says most people end up breaking their New Year's resolutions by February. I could be true, but I find that depressing. I'd like to think that people, especially the men that I work with, are able and ready for real changes to better their lives and their relationships. Are you up for the challenge? Leanne and I sat down to create our 2009 goals yesterday, and they were quite an exercise in detail-orientation.What goals do you have for the new year? Do you find that they work out best for you when you've written them down or typed them out? Do you need a partner to help you develop your goals? And, most importantly, how will be hold yourself accountable to accomplish them week after week? Here's some tips about goal setting:1. Practice visualizing exactly how you will be in 12 months. What will that picture look like? Will you be in that new job? What will it look like? What will your new relationship look like? Will she have brown or blonde hair? It's details like that that help the goal form itself, and get you to it more quickly.2. Practice creating simple, attainable and yet challenging goals.

Is the goal attainable enough yet just out of arm's reach? For example, paying off a credit card with a $5,000 balance may be a goal that is attainable, but will take some fortitude and commitment to it over some time.3. Create a system to help yourself track the goals each and every week. Will you use a day planner, your iPhone or the help of a friend? Some of my friends created goal groups, where they meet every so often and discuss how their goals are coming, and hold each other accountable. There is something to be said for having someone hold us accountable. I know my sense of commitment kicks in, and I would hate to disappointment myself if I didn't reach my goals, especially if I told someone else out loud that I was going to be doing them.These are some ideas to help you in the design, creation and implementation of you annual goals. I hope this helps you to create the kind of new year that you want. If you’re interested in learning more about the Men’s counseling , or if counseling might be right for you, please feel free to contact me directly or visit our Men’s counseling page for detail.