Nothing feels better than the satisfaction of knowing you have accomplished your goals for the year. These goals can be as small or as large as you like, the important thing is that you stick by them and see them through. Once you learn how to compartmentalize your efforts, dedicate your time, and succeed in your goals, the world will become your oyster.
Identifying your goal is probably the easiest part of this task, but how do you know if you’re achieving your goal if you can’t measure it effectively? The best way to develop your personal skills is by setting S.M.A.R.T goals. These goals aim to incorporate criteria that is Specific, Measurable, Achievable (or Attainable), Realistic (or Relevant), and Time-bound.
Specific and S.M.A.R.T goals should be narrow, making them easier to plan out. They should also be measurable in some way so that you can monitor your progress and reevaluate your goals if necessary. You should only set yourself goals that are attainable within your desired timeframe, for example, you can’t lose 10 pounds in one day. Furthermore, try to create relative goals that can align with your long-term values and objectives. Ultimately, create a time-based goal that gives you an end date to look forward to. This will spur on your own ability to prioritize your time and motivate yourself.
Here is a list of some worthwhile goals that you can set for 2021…
Learn a New Sport
You should never be afraid to try something new and sports are no exception. As an adult, it’s harder to get into the swing of a new sport, however, exercise is the best way to have fun and stay fit at the same time. It’s also a stellar way to meet new people and add a weekly dose of leisure into your routine. Soccer, basketball, and baseball are great team sports whilst badminton, paddle boarding, and golfing are some superb solo sports.
Get Your Driving License
Being able to drive gives you a level of independence like no other. No matter how old or young you are, getting your license (if you haven’t already) should be a top goal for 2021. Check out Irvine traffic school to see where and how you can get started. If you already have a driving license, why not tackle a certificate that you have always wanted to obtain? This could be a motorcycle license, boat license, or even a first-aid certification.
Limit Your Screen Time
The amount of time that we waste scrolling endlessly on our phones is rather shocking to say the least. Most people check their smartphones at least 58 times a day and many teens spend over 5 hours stuck to their screens. You may think this is just harmless entertainment, however, both your attention span and eyesight will suffer from this constant use of electronic devices. Try to avoid using your phone before bed and pick up a book instead, you may even find that you wake up feeling much more refreshed.
Start Meal Prepping
One of the most common excuses people use to justify their bad eating habits is that they simply don’t have time to make food. Making a freshly cooked meal every day can be time-consuming, especially if you’re only cooking for one. However, meal prepping is a great activity to get into because you will learn to use your time more efficiently and eat more nutritiously at the same time. Just because you start meal prepping doesn’t mean you will be eating the same thing every day. Try cooking two or three large batches of food and alternating these throughout your week.
Learn to Forgive
If there’s anything that you should learn to do in 2021, it’s letting go of any negative energy in your life. Learning how to forgive someone, or even yourself, is an attribute of the strong. It allows you to break free from the chains of negativity and find peace of mind Reach out to people from your past and try to see the situation from the other person’s perspective. Try to think of any grudges you might be holding onto and find healthy ways to let it go, you will instantly feel more liberated and tranquil.
Get Rid of a Bad Habit
Bad habits are sadly more common than good ones, however, we all have them. You may find you have a seriously dire habit, such as smoking, or a more harmless one, like biting your nails. Whichever habit you wish to kick, make sure to start your goals off small. Try eliminating this habit for a week, then move on to a month, three months, and so on. By the end of your challenge, we are sure that you will have eliminated this bad habit from your life for good. Once you are done with your infamously bad habit, why not try to pick up a worthy one instead?
Practice Gratitude
Another personal skill worth learning this year is gratitude. Although many horrific events have happened over the past year, we should learn to practice gratitude and be grateful for our achievements, health, and determination. A study conducted in 2020 demonstrated that regularly practicing gratitude could help mitigate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Practicing gratitude can be as simple as appreciating the positive aspects of your life and thanking the individuals who make your world a better place.
If the coronavirus pandemic has taught us anything, it’s taught us that there is no time to waste. We must make use of each day and we can no longer take anything for granted. If someone had warned us of what was yet to come, we would have never believed them. The world is truly an unpredictable place, so make sure to accomplish all the goals you set out for yourself. You never know what may be around the corner. With the right attitude, willpower, and approach, you can reach any goal you set yourself.
