Project U. Blog

"SMART" Resolutions Create Success

Posted by Catherine Saar on Thu, Dec 29, 2011 @ 02:32 PM

What do you want to accomplish for yourself in the New Year?  Even though making new years champagne iStock 000018550149XSmallresolutions is a good start, it’s not enough.  Getting results requires motivation and action.  Most of the time, we have a vague notion of what we want and absolutely no plan for getting there.  Is it any wonder that we fail? So how can you be more effective this time?

1) What’s your motivation?  First and foremost, answer this question:  WHY is it important for you to make this resolution happen?  A clear motivation will keep you going on the tough days.  Can you see the difference between saying, “I want to lose 15 pounds,” and saying, “I want to look hot, hot, hot at my 20th reunion in June –so I’m going to lose 15 pounds!”  One is only a goal, the other, is a motivation with a goal attached.

2) Turn resolutions into “SMART” goals that are specific, measureable, actionable, realistic and time-oriented.  Once you know what you want and why you want it, get specific.  Don’t just say I want to increase my income so I can afford a new car.  Specify how much more you are going to earn, and create a do-able plan for how you are going to make it happen.  Here’s an example of how you can break a resolution down into SMART goals:

  • Specific- Exactly what do you want?

    • I want to make $15,000 more by the end of 2012.

  • Measurable- How much and by when?

    • By May 1, I want to consistently earn  $500 more a week for the remainder of the year

  • Actionable– Can it be done? 

    • Can I increase my income by $500 per week starting in the first week of May? (I have the time to invest so it seems do-able if I implement a marketing plan early in the year.)

  • Realistic– Are you confident that you can take the necessary action?

    • I can add five client hours per week at $100 per hour and I can create and implement a marketing campaign no later than February 15th.

  • Time-Oriented– What will you do when?

    • Each week I will invest four “unpaid” hours in marketing and five more hours in client work to get to $15,000 or more by end of the year.

3) Manage obstacles.  You will face obstacles – we all do.  Sometimes obstacles live in your mind – like fear of the unknown.  Sometimes, they will be real, for example, you might need resources, information or time.  Brainstorm your obstacles.  How might you deal with them?  Who or what can help you?  Don’t be afraid of obstacles.  Work through them.

4) Return to your motivation.  Know that you will have difficult moments. Every time you feel like giving up, think about the outcome: how you will look and feel driving a brand new shiny, dependable car, or how great you will feel when you look fabulous at your reunion.  Keep your vision in mind – or draw a picture and post it. Re-work your plan if need be.  Set new, additional goals  weekly and measure your progress.

5) Congratulate yourself for everything you do.  Every step toward your goal is progress.  Focus on what you achieve, not what you haven’t done!

So, have fun writing resolutions, but if you want to get them done, make sure you have a plan and make sure you don’t blow yourself out of the water by creating goals that are unrealistic or unattainable.  Small and steady can win the race. 

DOWNLOAD a SMART RESOLUTION SUCCESS WORKSHEET now, to help you realize your dreams in 2012!  

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How to Benefit by Turning Your Job Search into a Project

Posted by Catherine Saar on Thu, Dec 08, 2011 @ 08:51 AM

Looking for a new job is a project – and it can be a streKozzi man smiles at desk 644x806ssful one, especially if you’re currently unemployed.  To make it better, I suggest you treat your job search as if it were a part-time job.  Being organized and getting dressed everyday – as well as taking time for lunch and getting exercise, can help relieve stress.  My experience is that a healthy, less stressed job seeker is usually more effective and more energetic - and that often translates into better results.  

Here are some tips and guidelines to consider when putting your project plan in place: 

  • Set a goal for daily and weekly hours for working on your job search.  If possible, set regular office hours for yourself. 
  • Don’t overdo it.  Forty hours a week may be too taxing.  Considering starting with 20 to 25 hours a week and adjust as needed.
  • Create an organized, professional workspace for yourself. Sitting in front of the TV with a bowl of cereal in your hand and a notepad on your lap may not be the best strategy for clear thinking.
  • Make yourself presentable.  You’re valuable.  Treat yourself as such.  You don’t have to dress-up in business clothes, but looking good contributes to a positive outlook. 
  • Each week, set goals and create a project plan for what you want to accomplish during your office hours.  Here are some activities to consider:
  • Spend time on your personal brand if you are making a career shift or change.  Take time to take career surveys, do informational interviews and develop a clear awareness of what you want from your next position.
  • Network in-person, on the phone and online.  Online networking is important, but don’t overlook high touch contact.  
  • Develop new contacts by joining groups and attending industry-networking functions.
  • Follow companies and apply for positions using targeted online job sites. There are many to consider, so pick the ones that suit you.
  • Update your resume and cover letters as needed.
  • Volunteer or take classes that improve or increase your marketable skills.

Last but not least, make time outside of your project schedule to connect with friends and share a few laughs.  Because looking for a job is a job, you will benefit by taking time to recharge your batteries. 

Best wishes for a happy, healthy and successful hunt.   By the way, what job search tips have worked well for you?

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