Did you set a goal for the New Year? In the early days of teaching for Dale Carnegie Training®, I learned that only 3% of the population set goals, but of those who identify their goals, more than 90% achieve them. Goal setting is difficult when there is a lack of accountability, encouragement or support – and it can be tough to achieve them. One of my business goals was to create a residual income stream to compliment my speaking and training business. I’ve been able to do that with N2 Publishing and launched a newsletter last November for the residents of Sedgefield. I had a vision for an event where my business partners would be invited to collaborate and share ideas about business strategies. In December of 2016, the first N2 business partner roundtable was held bringing together my business partners throughout the Triad. I was amazed at how responsive these professionals were to share insight into their life and business. The 90 minute event kicked off with introductions of attendees, noting how their backgrounds inspired each of them to choose their careers. Goal setting criteria was established with stories of business professionals achieving their personal goals. Participants were asked to identify one thing they would start doing and/or stop doing in the New Year that would have a positive impact on their business. Each person shared one goal with the group, and each participant was assigned an accountability partner to encourage this aspiration.

Have you made progress in achieving your last-years’ goals? Have you made progress toward your New Year goals? Are you ready to set a new goal for 2017? Involve your spouse, children, appropriate family member, or a colleague to give you a boost. Whether your goal is for business, personal or family, find a way to make it fun and celebrate your short-term wins to create additional momentum. I challenged our group to set a 90-day goal; it’s less daunting than a yearly goal. Remember, each day is a new opportunity to begin again and be a catalyst for change.

Let me know how you’re doing with your 2017 goals!