[ELM#950] Transforming Resolutions into Achievable Goals

According to research from the University of Maryland, resolutions often fail because they represent idealistic "should" statements rather than concrete, measurable objectives. Conversely, goals provide a clear pathway to success through specific, measurable outcomes and milestones.

Today's podcast will explore transforming vague resolutions into specific, actionable goals.

#EducationalLeader,
Kim

“When students are led well, they learn well.”

Website: http://kimdmoore.com
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The views shared in the Educational Leadership Moment are solely mine and do not reflect the positions of my employer or any entity within the local, state, or federal government sectors.

Transcript

Navigating traffic while driving my granddaughter to the movies, we were listening to her favorite radio station. After playing a popular song, the hosts spent considerable time discussing New Year's resolutions, sparking an interesting conversation between us.

"Grandmother, what are your New Year's resolutions?" she asked, her eyes bright with curiosity.

Her surprise was evident when I told her I don't make New Year's resolutions. "Why not?" she questioned, demonstrating that natural inquisitiveness that makes children such excellent teachers.

I began explaining the research-based differences between goal setting and resolutions. Still, before I could finish my carefully crafted explanation, she interrupted with her own resolution: "I want to make more friends and do a better job with my homework." Then, she promptly returned to singing along with the radio, seemingly dismissing my academic discourse.

This interaction highlighted a fundamental truth about human nature and our approach to personal change. Like my granddaughter, millions of people worldwide embrace the tradition of making New Year's resolutions. According to Forbes, the top five New Year's resolutions for 2023 were:

1. Improving mental health (45% of respondents)
2. Improving fitness (39% of respondents)
3. Losing weight (37% of respondents)
4. Improving diet (33% of respondents)
5. Improving finances (30% of respondents) (Kortava, 2023)

However, research shows a stark reality: approximately 80% of New Year's resolutions fail by February, with only 8% of people maintaining their resolutions throughout the year (Forbes, 2023). These statistics raise an important question: How can we effectively create the changes we desire in our lives?

The answer lies in transforming vague resolutions into specific, actionable goals. According to research from the University of Maryland, resolutions often fail because they represent idealistic "should" statements rather than concrete, measurable objectives (Johnson, 2023). Conversely, goals provide a clear pathway to success through specific, measurable outcomes and milestones.

Leadership expert John C. Maxwell offers valuable insight in his book "Intentional Living," encouraging us to "start small but believe big." This approach recognizes that sustainable change doesn't occur overnight but rather through consistent, intentional daily choices.

When we attempt dramatic overnight transformations, we often encounter resistance from our own psychology. Research in behavioral psychology suggests that smaller, incremental changes are more successful because they feel more achievable and create less psychological resistance (Peterson, 2023).

To implement Maxwell's "start small but believe big" philosophy, consider these four key strategies:

1. Start where you are - Assess your current situation honestly
2. Start with your one thing - Focus on your most important priority
3. Start watching your words - Use positive, action-oriented language
4. Start by making small changes - Create manageable, incremental steps

"Success is gained in inches at a time, not miles." – John C. Maxwell

This perspective aligns with modern psychological research on habit formation and behavioral change.

Before embarking on your journey of personal development this year, consider these questions:

• Have you transformed your resolutions into specific, measurable goals?
• What small, daily actions will support your larger objectives?
• How will you track and celebrate your incremental progress?
• What support systems can you put in place to maintain momentum?

By shifting our focus from broad resolutions to specific, actionable goals and embracing the power of small changes, we can create lasting transformation in our lives. After all, as my granddaughter inadvertently demonstrated, sometimes the simplest approaches are the most effective.

Have you developed a plan to implement and achieve your goals for the New Year?

Happy New Year!

#EducationalLeader,

Kim

References:

Forbes. (2023, February 15). 80% of New Year's resolutions fail by February - Here's how to keep yours. Forbes Magazine. 

Johnson, M. (2023). Goal setting versus resolutions: A psychological perspective. University of Maryland Research Digest, 28(4), 112-125

Kortava, D. (2023, December 28). The most popular New Year's resolutions for 2023. Forbes. 

Maxwell, J. C. (2015). Intentional living: Choosing a life that matters. Center Street Publishing.

Peterson, S. (2023). The psychology of behavioral change: Understanding resistance and motivation. Journal of Positive Psychology, 15(2), 45-62.