Photo: Color Joy Stock — **Photo:** Color Joy Stock

The start of a new year often signifies new beginnings. Not only is it a chance at a fresh start, but is also an opportune time to reevaluate yourself and your goals. Did you know 50% of adults in the U.S. make New Year’s resolutions, but fewer than 10% keep them for more than a few months? It’s understandable; life usually gets in the way or our expectations are too high. Here are some tips on how you can set realistic goals for yourself (professionally and personally) in the new year.

Assess your financial situation

Before you decide on your new goals, it’s important to make sure you’re financially secure for whatever you’re trying to accomplish. Count all of your assets including stocks, investments, checking/savings accounts, retirement accounts, and more. Try setting up a spreadsheet to keep your finances on track. Looking to boost your 401(k) contribution this year? Want to save money for a new car? That’s something you can do once you have a solid financial plan that is well thought out.

Ask yourself what makes you happy

While setting goals, it’s easy to get blinded by the productivity light. Sure, it might sound like a good idea to write a book, start a YouTube channel, and move to a new apartment but what is really going to make you happy? Take some time with yourself and ask these important questions. “Sleep on it” is a popular phrase for a reason! Put some real thought behind your goals and what you actually want to accomplish.

Think long term

One of the biggest mistakes people often make when setting goals is not thinking about them long term. It might sound like a great idea to invest in your friend's new company, but what about that student loan you’ve been trying to pay off? What is going to serve you best in the long run? What will you need in five years? Will you be living in a new home? Will you have children? These are all questions that should be considered before you make any big decisions.

Ask for advice

Don’t forget to utilize the friends, family, and coworkers you have around you for insightful advice. It can be helpful to gather a second opinion from someone who knows you well. Will you make it your goal to find a new job this year? Well, your friend Sara might remind you that there’s still room for you to move up in the company and you’ve already worked so hard to get there, so maybe you should stick it out one more year and see what happens. Sometimes it’s beneficial to get out of our own head and hear someone else’s perspective.

Tackle the new year with realistic goals that will spark happiness and fulfillment, whether that be in your personal life or your professional career. Try not to force productivity and stress yourself out in the process. Do your research to make it worth your while. You deserve it!

image0 (2) (1).jpeg — “Try not to force productivity and stress yourself out in the process.”

—Abbey Adams, Digital Marketing Coordinator

About the Author: Abbey Adams currently works at a full-service ad agency as a digital marketing coordinator. Throughout her time as a writer and media maven, she’s remained passionate in her love of sharing stories, curating content, and inspiring women. You can usually find her cuddled up on the couch binging “Sex and the City” (for the 20th time) or listening to a new album on repeat.