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Brett Krkosska Managing Editor	Setting Goals Keeps All Your Geese In A Row An examination of the difference between making resolutions and setting goals.

I'm the type that enjoys making resolutions. I really don't like calling them resolutions though. I'd rather stick with the word goals. Resolutions seem to be infected by a kind of "black or white" syndrome. You make a resolution, and if it doesn't work, oh well. Resolutions made for the new year are a perfect example of this syndrome. Goals on the other hand take on some very powerful features. Whenever I think of goals my mind conjures up this image of goal master Zig Ziglar, fist clenched in determination, his body crouched forward like a lion poised to strike, his eyes piercing my very soul ...

Well, maybe that's just me, but planning my goals with that vision sure revs me up. There are also some very logical, non-emotional reasons for goals.

Here are some of the great things about goals...

1. Goals are not black and white. Resolutions, on the other hand, take on the huge task of making a change in one bold move. With goals you are not forced into a "do or die" situation. Goals are never static or polar. They can be graduated to reach the heights, like a staircase. One step at a time. Goals create a process of illumination as you climb higher.

"No single event can awaken within us a stranger totally
unknown to us. To live is to be slowly born."
- Antoine De Saint-Exupery

2. Goals have determination and staying power. Goals can take it on the chin, and keep comin' back for more. It's simply a matter of modifying your goals in the face of temporary failure. Instead of taking one giant leap, you can break up a goal into 2 or 3 manageable steps.

"Many strokes overthrow the tallest oaks."
- John Lyly

3. Resolutions are more of a verbal or mental affirmation, while goals beg to be put on the page. It's really hard to remember... "I resolve to be more attentive to my wife this year. I will express my love with a fresh rose every fourth Tuesday of the month to celebrate our discovery of each other, then I'll buy her that lovely ring she's been eyeing for Valentines, then on St. Patty's Day I'll get her that green crystal goose for her goose collection, (don't forget to call Sears and order 2 weeks early), then...

So you see, goals are to be written; having clearly defined parameters for success. They can be referred to often, just to make sure you're on the right path. Writing it out keeps all your geese in a row. Right honey?

4. Once you achieve a goal you can pat yourself on the back, stand a little taller, and move on to the next goal. Nothing fires you up more than success. A whole bunch of little accomplishments sets the stage for the grand finale.

"Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of
ending" - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow


Don't get me wrong though. I'm not totally down on the idea of making resolutions.

Resolutions are lofty in nature and exemplify our quest to be the best human being we can be. They encourage us to change our lives and experience the real person inside of us.

A resolution is more apt to call on the spirit. Deeds of virtuousness are called upon to show themselves, and there is a beckoning for the higher self to step from the shadows.

If only in that moment of resolve we could capture the emotion and force that brought it from the recesses of our mind, and take that moment into the next moment, and into the next moment...

Alas, the grandeur of resolution does wane with time.

But there is hope! Take that inspired resolution and turn into a series of goals! Thereby you can at least capture the memory of your inspiration and turn it into action.

"I might have been born in a hovel, but I am determined to
travel with the wind and the stars." - Jacqueline Cochran


And regarding the ever popular New Year's Resolution...

A new year's resolution fits quite well on any standard 12 month calendar. A fresh start on the 1st day of the year.

It's such a nice little neat arrangement; making a resolution that fits so perfectly on my Toy Story 2 calendar. A gift from a little friend. I think I'll resolve to do something special for that little friend. Better yet, I think I'll make that a goal!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Brett Krkosska provides how-to advice on small business and home-based work issues. His site, http://www.HomeBizTools.com, helps small businesses reach their fullest potential. He is also the publisher of Straight Talk, a fresh and original newsletter that offers a unique perspective on today's business issues.

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