The year is winding down and this is the time when many people think about their goals.  It doesn’t matter if you’re a teenager, in your twenties, thirties, forties or beyond.  You can always redesign your life.

It doesn’t even have to be a huge overhaul but it can be something simple like changing a routine, taking a class or cutting out a bad habit.  Redesigning your life is a step by step process.  So one thing at a time is alright.

This is the time of year when I start reflecting on where the year went, what happened and ask myself did I reach my goals?  If not, why?  If yes, what are the new goals?

What goals do I have for next year and how do I get there is a very important question we should all ask as the year wraps up.  Striving for your dreams should be at the top of your mind.  We should dream like we used to when we were children.  But act upon it like the adults we have become.  Take a good look at your dreams and goals and ask how you can reach them.

Here are a few steps to getting there:

1. Write it down.

Sometimes we talk about what we want to do but we fail to write it down.  When we put ‘pen to paper’ (or type on the keyboard) it makes it more real rather than just talk.

2. Make your goals realistic.

Sometimes we set goals that are so far off they seem unobtainable.  Then when it isn’t achieved it’s easy to give up.  Remember that it takes baby steps to get there.  A person doesn’t become a president overnight but rather it’s a process.  Look at what the steps are to get where you’ve set your sights.  This way it seems less daunting.

3. Maximize your skills and strengths.

What are you good at?  Sometimes we fail to realize that our skills could be our biggest assets.  If you’re good at writing, why not enroll in a writing class to improve your skill.  Then start pitching some story ideas to local community newspapers.  If you’re an excellent speaker, try joining a local Toastmasters to test out your ability to write speeches and speak in front of people.

Think about the skills people often compliment you on.  Those are your hidden strengths you could maximize and use to create your dreams.

4. Just Do It.

All too often we talk about making new goals and do nothing about it.  Especially at the beginning of the year.  There are so many failed ‘resolutions’ made on January 1st every single year.  What’s important is to make a conscious effort to just ‘do’ what you say you’ll do.  Talk is cheap, as the saying goes.  You’ll never accomplish what you set forth if you don’t actually put your words into action.