Wow, 2011 is rapidly drawing to a close and the 2012 is looming large. Where did the time go?  As you reflect back on this year how did you do? Did you achieve all of the goals and dreams you had? Were you proactive in all areas of your life or were you reacting as life happened? 

Hey Tim, why are you asking this?  Great question, here’s why.

Right now is the perfect time to reflect on 2011 and be proactive for ’12.  And, to help you with this here’s a SMART approach to get you moving.  So relax, go to a quiet place, grab your favorite beverage, and reflect on what’s happened as you plan your future.

Are you ready?  Good!!

S = SPECIFIC.  Once you’ve determined how you did this year, let’s layout your goals for 2012.  This will be 3-5 specific goals that you will accomplish.  What will your income be?  How big of an organization will you have?  What will you do with your family?  You get the idea.  What’s important to YOU?  The more specific you are the better you’ll see your objective. 

M = MEASURABLE.   This is where the rubber meets the road.  It’s not enough to say “I want to make more money.” How much will you make? Each goal must be quantifiable.  When you look at your goal(s), how will you know if you’re moving in the right direction or have achieved it?  Take a look at where you are at now and where you want to end next year at.  The difference between the two is the GAP that must be bridged.  Knowing what that is will allow us to work together and know what to do.

A = ACTION.  What are the actions steps needed to accomplish these goals?  Do you know what to do?  ARE WE ON TRACK IN ASSISTING YOU ATTAINING YOUR GOALS AND MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION OR DO WE NEED TO RAMP IT UP?  Is there anyone else that you need to get support from?  What are you willing to sacrifice or set aside on a temporary basis to allow you to accomplish these actions?

R = REASON.  First, let’s visualize it’s December 31s 2012 and we are celebrating your victories because you’ve successfully achieved every goal you’ve set.  HOW DO YOU FEEL? Write that feeling out.  Make it so vivid that you can SEE, FEEL, HEAR, TASTE and SMELL IT.  This is awesome.  Make it that way.

Second, it’s December 31st 2012 and you haven’t fulfilled any of your goals – OUCH.  Write out how you’d feel.  Are you OK with that?

T – TIMELINE.  Now, layout your timeline for accomplishing each goal.  Break this down by quarter, month, week and day.  This will act as your roadmap on your 2012 journey to keep you focused and on track.  And, it will allow me to assist you in maintaining that focus.

Once you’ve finished this exercise then what?  File it away? NO!!  First, put it where you can see it everyday. Carry your goals with you, share them only with those who will support your effort and encourage your success.  Send a copy to your mentor/coach.   This will allow us to be constantly checking each area so by next December we’ll be toasting your accomplishments.

My desire for you is that you have a most blessed Christmas and Holiday season and that 2012 will be your best year ever.

Be Awesome,

Coach Tim