Okay, so 2021 is over and now 2022 is here! How do we make 2022 a great year when it has already started out so rough? Covid cases are on the rise, restrictions are once again in place and kids are returning to school later than expected after another uneventful holiday season.
We can’t just sit back and wait for another wave. We need to think about what we can achieve. We need to get back on track or get on a different track. We need to strive for the best 2022!
Step #1 – Reflections
To plan for 2022, first we need to reflect on our 2021. What worked well for us? What didn’t work so well? What are we grateful for through it all? As we ask ourselves these questions, we are getting an idea of what we can do better or how to improve on ourselves this year. And there are so many benefits to practicing gratitude. We start off on a happy and optimistic note, it strengthens your relationships including socials supports, it makes us more effective managers, improves our decision making, connects meaning to our work, and reduces stress.
Step #2 – Assessment
Next step is to utilize some sort of assessment tool. I would suggest one that uses a holistic approach. All dimensions should work in harmony. Assessment tools can be fun and are a good way to compare the before and after. If it is a visual tool, even better so that you put it somewhere as a reminder.
For a holistic approach, the 8 dimension of wellness that I use are: Financial – overall financial health on an individual i.e. expenses and budget. Spiritual – connected to something greater than yourself that guide your actions i.e. set of values, principles, morals, and beliefs that provide a sense of purpose and meaning to life. Intellectual – refers to active participation in scholastic, cultural, and community activities i.e. expanding knowledge and skills through personal development, problem solving and creativity. Emotional – inspires self-care, relaxation, stress reduction and the development of inner strength i.e. handling positive and negative feelings, learning and growing from experiences. Physical – promotes proper care of our bodies for optimal health and functioning i.e. physical activity, nutrition, and sleep. Social – refers to the relationships we have and how we interact with others i.e. building healthy, nurturing, and supportive relationships with people and our community. Occupational – is the ability to achieve a balance between work and leisure in a way that promotes health, a sense of personal satisfaction and is financially rewarding. Environmental – is an awareness of the effects of your daily habits on the physical environment with a focus on minimizing harm i.e. safety, reducing, reusing and recycling.
Step #3 – Goal Setting
You have done your reflections and your assessment and now you have information to start your goal setting! Your goals will provide you with a vision for 2022. Ensuring your goals are SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time bound) provides greater clarity. Successful people set goals because they know that the goal-setting process plays a significant role in helping them achieve their big dreams.
As you set your goals, here are some things to consider: What barriers to you must overcome to achieve your goal? Are there any supports or resources required for you to attain the goal? How do you want to reward yourself for accomplishing the goal? Our goals must be personal and be aligned with our values.
You should develop between 3-4 goals. This will avoid burn out and any sacrifices that may need to be made to achieve the goals. Write them down! Share them with friends, family or coworkers! Post them! Put them somewhere you will see them daily, like a vision board or somewhere away from clutter. Wherever you choose, pick an inspiring place in your home or office that you see everyday.
Once your goals are set, don’t delay! Think about what you need to do this week or this month. Continue to review and adjust, review and adjust, review and adjust…as you need to. Don’t get discouraged, this is part of the process to ensure success at the end of the year.
Click here to request a FREE Wellness Visualization assessment tool!
#Balance 