Make 2024 Meaningful: tips for setting resolutions and sticking with them
With the New Year comes new opportunities to reset, refocus, and reprioritize what is truly important. Whether you view this calendar change as incentive to make progress towards your goals or you tend to avoid resolutions, here are some quick tips to setting and achieving goals at any time of the year:
It’s okay to start small: many failed resolutions are the result of aiming too high too quickly. Starting with small, sustainable goals that can be adjusted down the road is a more achievable plan for long-term success.
Set SAM goals: when we set goals that are Specific, Attainable, and Measurable, we are more likely to stick to them. A resolution to “volunteer twice a month with a local nonprofit” is more achievable than to simply “volunteer more.”
Align your goals with your values: what is most important to you? Shaping goals that encourage you toward your overall vision of a healthy life will help you find motivation to stick with them.
“The organizations in our community take it upon themselves to do a lot with a little, providing life-changing resources and support for people and their families. Seeing so much of the community come out to provide hands-on help and demonstrate support is an invaluable experience with a positive ripple effect. I’m proud to be a part of it.”
“I think it is important for everyone with the means and ability to volunteer, together. By taking care of our community, we can help ensure the that community is able to take care of those that come after us.”
Volunteers from Pacific Cascade Federal Credit Union serving at Lane County Diaper Bank during United Way’s 2023 Days of Caring.
No matter what your goals for 2024 are, it’s never too late to start. United Way’s volunteer website can connect you with volunteer opportunities in Lane County that align with your passions. Our friends at the United Way of the Greater Capital Region have put together a 21-day Equity Challenge for anyone looking to pursue Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Access more deeply in all areas of their lives. And the Early Childhood Hub of Lane County has compiled a blog on setting parenting goals for the New Year.
Make 2024 a year to take that leap – you, your loved ones, and your local community will be so glad you did.