SETTING AND REACHING GOALS
By Libby Hubscher
I love this time for year, not just for the festive twinkle lights and cookies and time celebrating with family and friends, but for the chance to reflect on the previous year and make goals for the New Year.
Last year after the holidays, Mr. Houston asked his students what their goals were for 2016. I said I’d like to earn my Brown belt (third brown). From that point on, my goal was on my mind at every class and during every test. When I struggled with some health problems, my goal gave me something to focus on and helped keep me going. I was so happy, when I received my Brown belt at our December promotion ceremony at the Apex Dojo.
Resolutions aren’t just for adults. My 6-year-old (now 7) daughter hoped to obtain her Green belt. When she was tired of practicing kata or didn’t feel like going to class after a long day at school, I reminded her of her goal. It was hard work, but she made it. The proud look on her face when she broke the board at the promotion ceremony said it all.
Achieving your goal is rewarding. But even if you don’t reach it, every step forward is progress, and something to be proud of. Setting SMART goals and making a plan can help increase your odds of success:
Specific
Measurable
Agreed-upon
Realistic
Timed
In 2017, I hope to become better at sparring by speeding up and improving my side-kick technique and countering. I plan to advance my execution of the self-defense sets I’ve already learned, and add several new ones. I’d also like to obtain my Deputy Black Belt.
What are your New Year’s resolutions and goals for 2017?