Rethinking Resolutions: Why Monthly Goals Beat Annual Promises
It's that time again. As we wrap up 2024, my social media feeds are already filling with ambitious New Year's resolutions. You know the ones - "I'll work out every day!" or "I'll read 50 books this year!" These grand declarations usually fizzle out by February, leaving us feeling defeated and discouraged.
But what if there's a better way?
Breaking Down the Annual Beast
For years, I've taken a different approach to resolutions. Instead of making yearlong commitments, I set monthly goals aligned with desired outcomes. This simple shift has been a game-changer. Why? Because falling off the wagon in January doesn't doom my entire year. Each month is a fresh start, a new opportunity to hit those targets.
Outcomes Over Actions
Another secret of mine? I focus on desired outcomes rather than specific actions. Take "continuous learning" for example. Instead of vaguely promising to "learn more," I track books read with a monthly goal of two. It's specific, measurable, and - most importantly - achievable.
Getting Personal
Some of my monthly goals might surprise you. Sure, I track workouts (10 per month) for healthier living, but I also measure board game nights with my wife (4 per month) for continuous marriage improvement. Yes, you read that right - board games are a key metric in my marriage goals. It's not about the games themselves; it's about creating intentional time for connection and shared experiences.
The Power of Reset
This approach isn't just about tracking numbers. It's about understanding that life happens. Some months you'll crush your goals; others, you'll fall short. And that's okay. The beauty of monthly resolutions is that you get 12 fresh starts each year, not just one.
Here's my framework for 2025:
Continuous learning → 2 books/month
Healthier living → 10 workouts/month
Marriage improvement → 4 board game nights with my wife/month
Hobby engagement → 8 gaming days/month
Mental health → 10 journal entries/month
Why It Works
This system works because it's both structured and forgiving. Each goal is specific and measurable, but the monthly reset prevents the "all or nothing" mentality that dooms so many annual resolutions. Plus, tracking outcomes rather than actions keeps me focused on what really matters.
As you think about your own resolutions for 2025, consider this approach. What outcomes do you really want? How could you measure them monthly instead of yearly? And most importantly, what metrics would truly reflect progress toward your goals?
Break a Pencil,
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