Each year, millions of us make New Year's resolutions, but
the majority of us don't keep them.  In fact, half of all New Year's resolutions are abandoned within a month, according to a recent survey.

This survey result begs the question: Why do so many people
"give up" on their goals?  "It isn't a lack of motivation," says Ramon Williamson, a Virginia-based author, life coach, and motivational speaker.  "The real issue is a lack of focus and time.  Most people are just so busy doing what's urgent; they have no time to work on their most important goals."

To help his clients focus on and accomplish their most meaningful life, career, and business goals, Williamson has
created a simple system, which he calls "8 Minutes to Success." Here are eight key tips from the program:

1. Let go of the past.  Don't dwell on what you haven't accomplished.  Forgive yourself, and focus on the present
and your goals for the future.

2. Begin with a vision.  When coaching his clients, Williamson suggests that they NOT make "resolutions." Instead, he has them begin with a clear vision or theme for the year based on their true values and desires.

3. Throw out your "should" goals.  These are goals based on
feelings of guilt or shame.  Yes, you probably SHOULD lose
some weight--but until it becomes a "must" that you are truly committed to, leave it off your list.

4. Create a 90-day plan.  Make a list of the life areas you want to work on such as: spiritual, physical, financial, career, relationships, etc.  Next, write out your goals for each area.  Then, put your goals into a 90-day plan. Planning in 90-day cycles will help you accomplish twice as much in half the time.

5. Track your results.  Whatever you measure, you can improve.  Use a personal planner or journal to track your
progress and document your success.

6. Take time for you.  Take time to renew yourself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Schedule a day at the spa.  Enroll in a weekend seminar. You can't give to others if you haven't replenished yourself.

7. Find a mentor/coach.  Ask a friend, associate, or hire a
coach to hold you accountable.  Schedule a weekly time to
meet together and check-in on your goals. Make sure you are
completely honest about your progress and obstacles.

8. Reward yourself.  On a weekly basis, review the progress
that you are making on your goals. When you accomplish or
complete a certain goal or task, celebrate.

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Ramon Williamson, author of Six Simple Things That Can
Change Your Life, is a life coach and motivational speaker.
Busy people use his "8 Minutes to Success" program to
quickly improve their careers, finances, relationships, and
health.  Named one of the 50 best in personal and business
coaching, he offers a FREE 5-part introduction to coaching
at http://www.ramonwilliamson.com