SMART GOALS for 2012

Good morning everyone!  Have you managed to grab some time to consider what you want for 2012 and beyond yet?  Even as I was writing about this topic I realised that I too need to pay more attention to some of the plans I have - to alter, tweak or scrap all together in one instance.  Just one of the (typically post festivities) statements I made was about not drinking at all in January.  Why would I do that, I like a drink!  However, rather than have a slurp (or two) of red most evening, I will change to white (lighter) and then mainly at weekends. I didn't even start to drink red wine until I was about 40 and then only occasionally, but now it's a habit I need to break - along with a few others I think. The older I get, the fitter I want and need to be, so if something isn't life enhancing for me then it's out!  Could I just say though, that if anyone sees me in the Plasterers with a glass of red, feel free to remind me about this blog - ha!

Remember that your goals, plans and ambitions may need to be re-assessed from time to time and adjusted accordingly.  They should reflect your life and be SMART.  That is:

SPECIFIC -       Defined as a clear, defined outcome, not a vague general intention

MEASURABLE - You will be able to see a clear, noticeable change

ACHIEVABLE -  They are possible, at least in theory, for you to do

REALISTIC -     Be confident that you  have the commitment to see things  through

TIMED -          A built in completion date, a time scale to work to

There is also a need to bear in mind any present or future likely demands in your life which might have an influence.  This may sound obvious but best to consider at the outset.

And so what about me?  I don't want to share all my stuff with you (sorry!) but generally, I will continue to:

• Fling myself into life, but remember to sit now and then to reflect a little
• Never squander being alive
• Be open to new people, connections and ideas. Maybe I will say 'yes' to the odd date in 2012 - but please, don't quote me on this!
• Get fitter (again!).  Walking really is the best way for me, so much more of that.
• Be as forgiving with myself as I generally am with others 
• Oh, and the biggie is to renovate a (small) neglected, stately home and gardens with  a smart, attractive .......(??) which will then be open to the public! Not that I have a stately home, the money to buy one or anyone in mind yet to do this with me but hey, "You've got to have a dream, if you don't have a dream, how you gonna have a dream come true!"

Blogs coming up this week include goals/questions which are more career orientated and one about Oxton. Next one up by Wednesday. See you soon x