Before you set your new year goals...

A new year symbolises a fresh start to make significant changes to our habits. Before you write down your 2022 goals, here are my five top tips for setting the best goals for you:

Keep your goals SMART

This stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-Based. Rather than setting vague goals like 'start running', it is better to set a SMART goal such as 'run a 5K in under 30 minutes by the end of the year'. See how you can actually measure if you have achieved it or not? You're more likely to stick to SMART goals, as there is a clear and objective way of hitting them.

Keep the list short

There is a temptation to set lots and lots of goals in order to have the best possible year. But in reality, you can't do it all. I often quote productivity expert Dave Allen: 'you can do anything, but you can't do everything'. Really decide on what matters to you, and what will pay dividends in the future. For me, health and happiness always comes first. I've already taken three things off my 2022 goals list, so I can focus on the top priorities

'How you spend your days, is how you spend your life'

The philosophical quotes keep on coming! Remember, you will dedicate a significant amount of time to these goals, so make sure they are adding up to a life you really want to live. For example, you may have 'go to the gym twice a week' on your goals list. But if you don't enjoy going to the gym, you are spending over 25% of your days doing something you don't want to do. It would be much better to find a source of exercise that you actually enjoy.

Tackle multiple life areas for balance

Try not to become hyper-focused on one life area, for example diet. Instead, look at a range of life areas including skills, finance, relationships and mental health.

Don't tell everyone your next move

Sometimes it is best to keep your goals between you and your planner, and maybe a couple of very carefully chosen people. While you may think being public about your goals will spur you on to hitting them, I really believe that having less eyes on your situation is better for your mental health.

Be a dark horse and surprise people.

Bonus tip:

Find the time to reflect on what you have achieved this year, you might be surprised. More importantly, see any struggles or mistakes that you have made as valuable learning experiences to take forward into the new year. I guarantee you are a better version this year than last year, and you will continue to get better. That's the beauty of this journey we call life.

P.S. If you have Instagram, follow me @SmoozeShop. I offer lots more planning tips and mental health mantra over there!