Resolutions: Worth Their Weight in GOLD

Four steps to fast-track your goals

Resolutions can be daunting, demanding a never-ending change in habits. That’s too much pressure to start the New Year, whereas goals imply a winner at the end of the game. More importantly, goals can begin any month or day of the week. I’ll dust off the classic fable, The Tortoise and the Hare, and show how our green friend fulfills his dream by going for the GOLD – Goals, Objectives, Logistics and Deadlines – to win the race.

Goals
Being successful takes time. It might happen today, next month, or 365 days from now, but defining your vision is step one.

Write down your ultimate goal. Is it to run your first marathon? Offer a tasteful toast at a wedding? Whether it’s a large task like writing a novel or a small chore like cleaning out the junk drawer – get it down on paper. Setting your project on paper begins the process of making it a reality.

If you can imagine it, you can achieve it.
If you can dream it, you can become it.
- William Arthur Ward

Objectives
In the parable, the tortoise dreams of beating the hare in a foot race. An ambitious endeavor? Yes, but listing the objectives and tasks needed to accomplish the ultimate goal brings him closer to the finish line. Our shelled friend’s “to do” list might look like this:

1. Define the distance
2. Train on the track
3. Run the race

Write down the necessary steps to reach your goal. Modify your list as you encounter obstacles (we typically do) and remember what Mom always said, “The journey itself builds character.”

Logistics
When you reach a road block, assess the situation. Look for options and determine if you can go over, around, under or through the barrier. A logistical lifeline is always available. Reach out to an expert or mentor for help.

He who is afraid of asking is ashamed of learning.
- Danish Proverb

Deadlines
Assign a target completion date for each objective. A schedule will emerge and magically propel you down the path toward success. Committing to each deadline will help prevent procrastination.

Had the hare followed through with his original intentions, instead of taking a nap under the oak tree, he’d be showered with champagne in the winner’s circle and not sassing about second place.

There are two mistakes one can make along the road.
Not going all the way and not starting.
- Buddha

Every mile finished in your personal marathon adds momentum, motivating you to “go the distance” – an accomplishment that deserves a victory dance. Winners go for the GOLD (Goals, Objectives, Logistics and Deadlines). Set your path on paper and you’ll be on the fast track to achieving your destiny.

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.
- Eleanor Roosevelt

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Michael Varma is a freelance writer, award-winning presenter and professional magician. To learn more, visit http://www.michaelvarma.com/.

Contact Michael Varma, the author of Tasteful Toasts, for permission to reprint this article. Copyright January 2009 Magical Concepts.