Ten Ways to Beat Procrastination and Achieve New Year's Resolutions - Good Intentions Are Not Good Enough

Ask the Expert: Anna Russo, NLP Master Trainer, Author, and Life Coach

Q: I'm a working mom, married with three children and started off the New Year with good intentions to exercise, make time for myself and spend more time with my family.  The months are flying by and I haven't kept any of my New Year's resolutions.  I feel like I've everyone down, especially myself.  What suggestions can you give me to get back on track?

A: When it comes to getting results, just good intentions are not enough. What's missing is a system. How about a no-nonsense action plan that is written and specific?

New Resolutions

1. Review your past accomplishments. It will boost your image as an achiever and fuel future success. As you review your accomplishments, consider areas that are personally and professionally meaningful to you. Set your goals based on those areas.
2. Write a one-year autobiography in advance. Pretend that one-year has gone by and write a letter describing the goals that you have achieved as if they have already happened and notice how you feel.
3. Select five of the most meaningful goals. Write each goal at the top of five pieces of blank paper.
4. Write a reason for each goal. We can accomplish just about anything when we have big enough reason to do it. Make a list of all the reasons you want each goal. (What will accomplishing the goal do for you?) Getting it on paper will make it more real.
5. List lost opportunities. Make another list of all the things you would miss if you don't follow through on your goals. What would you lose financially, emotionally and physically etc.?
6. Define success indicators. How will you know when you have accomplished your goal? How will you measure it? What will you see, say and feel?
7. Decide what you would or wouldn't give up. Compile a list of what you are willing to give up or not give up in order to accomplish your outcome.   Be honest with yourself. Will you give up time, money, energy or old unproductive habits? Get your thinking on paper where you can make an informed decision.
8. Test: "willing to do whatever it takes?" Considering your responses to the above steps, are you now willing to do whatever it takes? (Example: Stopping at McDonalds every morning for breakfast instead of working out.) If your reply is no, then there is something missing from your goal.
9. Be honest with yourself.  Is the goal important or just a good idea?  If the goal is not important enough, then don't waste your time.
10. Formulate an action plan. From where you are now, what steps are necessary for you to reach your goal?
    1. What is the first step?
    2. Using your imagination, pretend you already have the goal. Look backwards to now, and then ask yourself, how did I get here?
    3. What is the sequence of steps you see yourself taking? Write them down.

Get started today! Just do it!

Anna Russo of Success Strategies NLP of Michigan is a NLP trainer, Author, Life Coach, and Self-publisher. With 20 years of experience helping people make changes and achieve desired results. Questions? You can email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 248-528-0753.  Ms. Russo is a member of The Family Center's Association of Professionals.

The Family Center, a 501(c) 3, non-profit organization, serves as the community's centralized hub for information, resources and referral for families and professionals. 

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