An examination of the difference between making resolutions and setting goals.
By Brett Krkosska
I'm the
type that enjoys making resolutions. I really don't like calling them resolutions though.
I'd rather stick with the word goals. Resolutions seem to be infected by a kind of
"black or white" syndrome. You make a resolution, and if it doesn't work, oh
well. Resolutions made for the new year are a perfect example of this syndrome.
Goals on the other hand take on some very powerful features. Whenever I think of goals my
mind conjures up this image of goal master Zig Ziglar, fist clenched in determination, his
body crouched forward like a lion poised to strike, his eyes piercing my very soul ...
Well, maybe that's just me, but planning my goals with that vision sure revs me up. There
are also some very logical, non-emotional reasons for goals.
Here are some of the great things about goals...
1. Goals are not black and white. Resolutions, on the other hand, take on the huge task of
making a change in one bold move. With goals you are not forced into a "do or
die" situation. Goals are never static or polar. They can be graduated to reach the
heights, like a staircase. One step at a time. Goals create a process of illumination as
you climb higher.
"No single event can awaken within us a stranger totally
unknown to us. To live is to be slowly born."
- Antoine De Saint-Exupery
2. Goals have determination and staying power. Goals can take it on the chin, and keep
comin' back for more. It's simply a matter of modifying your goals in the face of
temporary failure. Instead of taking one giant leap, you can break up a goal into 2 or 3
manageable steps.
"Many strokes overthrow the tallest oaks."
- John Lyly
3. Resolutions are more of a verbal or mental affirmation, while goals beg to be put on
the page. It's really hard to remember... "I resolve to be more attentive to my wife
this year. I will express my love with a fresh rose every fourth Tuesday of the month to
celebrate our discovery of each other, then I'll buy her that lovely ring she's been
eyeing for Valentines, then on St. Patty's Day I'll get her that green crystal goose for
her goose collection, (don't forget to call Sears and order 2 weeks early), then...
So you see, goals are to be written; having clearly defined parameters for success. They
can be referred to often, just to make sure you're on the right path. Writing it out keeps
all your geese in a row. Right honey?
4. Once you achieve a goal you can pat yourself on the back, stand a little taller, and
move on to the next goal. Nothing fires you up more than success. A whole bunch of little
accomplishments sets the stage for the grand finale.
"Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of
ending" - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Don't get me wrong though. I'm not totally down on the idea of making resolutions.
Resolutions are lofty in nature and exemplify our quest to be the best human being we can
be. They encourage us to change our lives and experience the real person inside of us.
A resolution is more apt to call on the spirit. Deeds of virtuousness are called upon to
show themselves, and there is a beckoning for the higher self to step from the shadows.
If only in that moment of resolve we could capture the emotion and force that brought it
from the recesses of our mind, and take that moment into the next moment, and into the
next moment...
Alas, the grandeur of resolution does wane with time.
But there is hope! Take that inspired resolution and turn into a series of goals! Thereby
you can at least capture the memory of your inspiration and turn it into action.
"I might have been born in a hovel, but I am determined to
travel with the wind and the stars." - Jacqueline Cochran
And regarding the ever popular New Year's Resolution...
A new year's resolution fits quite well on any standard 12 month calendar. A fresh start
on the 1st day of the year.
It's such a nice little neat arrangement; making a resolution that fits so perfectly on my
Toy Story 2 calendar. A gift from a little friend you know. I think I'll resolve to do
something special for that little friend. Better yet, I think I'll make that a goal!
Related Articles:
The Top 5 Reasons Most People Fail at Achieving Their
Goals .. and How to Fix Them
In this article, I’ve identified the Top 5 reasons people fail at achieving their goals. You may find that one, two, or even all five of these relate to your life and experience with goal setting.
Misplaced Your Priorities?
The message here is to think about how you put
your time, your energy, and your resources into one
thing that agreeably needs to be done - but at the expense of something that was
more important to you.
The Simple Steps To Reaching Your Goals
The only difference between setting goals for your business or
career, and setting personal goals is the subject matter. With
commitment and persistence, and setting goals, your life can
be any way you want it.
