What have you listed as your goal(s) for 2013?
How is that goal related to evaluation?
One study suggests that you’re 10 times more likely alter a behavior successfully (i.e. get rid of a “bad” behavior; adopt a “good” behavior) than you would if you didn’t make resolution. That statement is evaluative; a good place to start. 10 times! Wow. Yet, even that isn’t a guarantee you will be successful.
How can you increase the likelihood that you will be successful?
- Set specific goals. Break the big goal into small steps; tie those small steps to a time line. You want to read how many pages by when? Write it down. Keep track.
- Make it public. Just like other intentions, if you tell someone there is an increased likelihood you will complete them. I put it in my quarterly reports to my supervisors.
- Substitute “good” for “less than desirable”. I know how hard it is to write (for example). I have in the past and will this year again, schedule and protect a specified time to write those three articles that are sitting partly complete. I’ve substituted “10:00 on Wednesdays and Fridays” for the vague “when I have a block of time I’ll get it done”. The block of time never materializes.
- Keep track of progress. I mentioned it in number 1; I’ll say it again: Keep track; make a chart. I’m going to get those manuscripts done by X data…my chart will reflect that
So are you going to
- Read something new to you (even if it is not new)?
- Write that manuscript from that presentation you made?
- Finish that manuscript you have started AND submit it for publication?
- Register for and watch a webinar on a topic you know little about?
- Explore a topic you find interesting?
- Something else?
Let me hear from you as to your resolutions; I’ll periodically give you an update.
And be grateful for the opportunity…gratitude is a powerful way to reinforce you and your goal setting.