Everyone likes a fresh start. We always decide we are going to change. Lose weight, get fit, pay-off our debts, work less, work more, and maybe even get a whole new life. Then we are overwhelmed with guilt, after all the promises we have made are broken. We leave our promises in the dust because thinking you can do something and actually doing it are two different things. You must believe in your mission, whether large or small, but you also have to take practical steps to make it happen. Every day you have a clean slate before you. You can have a fresh start today. 

1. COUNT THE COST
Sit down and think about it before you commit. Do you really want to lose weight? Do you really want to pay off your debts and save more money? How about going back to school or making sure you spend more time with your family? Decide now what you have to do to make it happen. There may be a few sacrifices to make so you can achieve your goals. The rewards will be well worth it.

2. ONE DAY AT A TIME
To achieve your goals will take discipline, dedication and sacrifice, but since the rewards are well worth it, just take it one day at time. We all want a quick fix. Why not set your goals and achieve them the old fashioned way? Work at them on a daily basis. Try to break your goals down into simple steps that don't feel overwhelming.   

3. MAKE A CONTRACT
Once you have decided you're ready to commit to your goals, write them down. Writing your goals on paper does something to your mindset. Studies show that if you write a goal down you are more likely to accomplish it. There is something binding about seeing it all in print. Contracts are written to make sure you can't get out of the deal. They help you stay on track. 

4. KNOW YOUR ACTION STEPS
Be specific. Let's say you want to lose weight. Write down how much weight you want to lose. Write down when and where you are going to exercise and what you are going to eat daily. Being specific will help you see each step you must take for success.

5. BE ACCOUNTABLE
When you are ready to commit to your goal with consistent action steps then actually sign your personal contract and have a witness add another signature. It's invaluable to make yourself accountable to someone else.

6. SWIM UPSTREAM  
Obstacles are going to get in your way. Count on it. The first time you try to get up early to walk, you can't find your walking shoes, you're running late, and it's about to snow or rain. What are you going to do? Decide nothing is going to stop you even if it feels like you are swimming upstream every day. You can do it and every day you will be closer to your goal and it will get easier. Be determined!    

7. CREATE A SUPPORT NETWORK
Don't forget to get help. You need a support network. Join the Energy Girls or get a Hope Coach. Someone you trust who can encourage you, believe in you and keep you on track. That's invaluable when you are working towards an important goal. Your support network may consist of a health and fitness professional, friends, your spouse, or someone who simply believes in what you're doing. Your support network also makes the whole process a lot more fun.

8. STAY FOCUSED
Staying focused will enable you to achieve your goals and experience the joy of success. Every day you are given 86,400 seconds in the bank of time. Invest and protect your time wisely. There are limitless distractions that can keep you from your goals--don't let them. Join the Energy Girls. It's not too late to get a fresh start. You can achieve your goals. Start working on your plan today and determine this will be the time all those empty promises become reality. There's joy on the road ahead. Decide today is the day for your fresh start.   

Copyright © 2020 Ruth Gordon Howard 
All Rights Reserved. www.RuthGordonHoward.com.

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