Tips for making 2022 your best year yet

When you think about 2021, are you happy with the way it played out? Did you manage to achieve everything you'd planned? It’s useful to take time to reflect, evaluate and adjust.

So many of us start the new year with the best of intentions, motivated by the clean slate a new year brings. But by the end of January, often all our good intentions and best-laid plans begin to wane, and grand ideas are no more than just, er… ideas?

And let's be real, even if you were on track to achieve all your goals, the awful reality is that we're still battling COVID-19.

But 2022 is a new year, one we are hoping will be far better for most. To turn your life around and get you back on track to achieve your personal targets, we've created a list of tips on how to achieve what you set out to do, for the year ahead.

Have a purpose and do something you love

Consider why you’re going to do something. What is your purpose, your reason, your motivation? Are you emotionally attached to your goal? Is it something you want with all your heart and that you’re willing to work hard for? Be sure and be focused. A half-hearted attempt may get you only halfway to your goal.

Be realistic about your goals

Be realistic about what you set out to achieve. Those ten things you want to do by the end of the year, are you realistically able to do them? Will you have the time and money?

Choose goals you know you can meet. Spreading yourself too thin can result in sub-par results or failure. Write down your goals and consider them. Maybe some things are long-term goals and others are achievable now.

Can you divide your big goals into smaller, more manageable pieces? Achieving small things will help increase your motivation and confidence to tackle something that’s more substantial.

Take stock, be accountable, and collaborate with friends and loved ones

Don’t keep your goals to yourself. Consider finding someone to share your journey and help keep you accountable. If you want to improve your fitness, find an exercise partner, for example. Having a resolution buddy is fun and will help keep you motivated.

If your goals will influence your loved ones, they should be kept in the loop. And while it’s great to share goals with a partner, keep in mind that they may have their own goals that may not always align with yours. Clear communication is key.

Life is a journey, not a destination

As you set sail toward your goal, remember that the only thing constant in life is change. The winds may suddenly switch direction, or strengthen, or even leave you becalmed. Be flexible and prepared to adjust your sails—or your plans—as you shape a course for your destination. No matter which way the winds in your life may blow, if you have your eye firmly on the horizon and your destination clearly in mind, you’ll reach your goal.

I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination. ~Jimmy Dean

So, now you've worked out what matters to you this year, is returning to study on the cards? Explore CDU's courses and make next year your best yet.