Welcome back, GW family! As we embark on a new year filled with endless possibilities, it's the perfect time to reflect on where you are now, and where you’d like to be at this time next year, and set some powerful resolutions or goals to help you get there. If you are still trying to figure out where to start or have not made goals before, it might not be a bad time to reflect on the past year.
Begin by acknowledging and celebrating your achievements from 2023. Take note of the challenges you overcame, and the skills you acquired. Ask yourself: What did I learn last year, and what do I want to learn now? Reflecting on your journey will help you to set realistic and achievable goals.
When it comes to setting goals or making resolutions, specificity matters. Try to stay away from goals like “publish more.” While a vague goal may be a great starting point to create a roadmap, you will be less likely to accomplish said goal if you leave out precise details such as “submit three research papers to top tier conferences” or “complete data collection for my thesis by August.” Specific goals help to provide a clear path and make it easier for you to modify and track your progress. Remember, if you do not make the deadline you set for yourself, you can always reschedule.
If your goal is substantial in size, break it down into manageable steps. Large goals can be overwhelming, especially when viewed as a whole. Categorize specific tasks into categories and prioritize them as you see fit. Consistency and building new habits will help that much more when it comes to achieving your goals.
Don’t forget to be realistic and accountable. If you are uncertain about a specific goal or are feeling overwhelmed, it might help to share your vision with a peer or a mentor who can offer support on how to keep on track. If you need to, schedule check-ins or progress reviews that can also help to keep you focused.
One of the best ways to achieve your goals is to find and use tools to help manage and track your progress. Task organization matters, no matter if it is digital or kept in a journal. Keeping your workspace clean, and your planner or goal notebook nearby and well-maintained can be a big help!
Lastly, understand that setbacks happen and that they are all part of any journey. Instead of viewing them as failures, view them as opportunities to learn and grow. Use setbacks as an opportunity to revisit your goals, adjust your strategies, and move forward with a newfound resilience!
We can’t wait to see all of you succeed in 2024. Welcome back, and let’s make the best of this year together. Raise high!
