The beginning of each new calendar year is often the time that many of us tend to focus on taking action on things we would like to change. Change however is a gradual event, so many of us find it challenging to stay patient with the process. We want things to happen instantly, and when we don't feel like change is moving as rapidly as we would like, we can have the tendency to jump ship with whatever it is that we were working towards.

We all have our goals or things we'd like to change or improve. Some common resolutions include living a healthier lifestyle, earning a promotion at work, finding greater fulfillment professionally, paying off debt, or improving our relationships with those who hold importance in our lives. Resolutions may also include working toward a major life goal like having a baby or getting sober from drugs or alcohol. Whatever your own personal visions entail, it’s important to consider a few guidelines while on your journey.

• Set one or two goals for each day. That's it.  Keep it manageable and take it one step at a time. You don't need to take on everything at once. Just pick ONE thing, every day, which you need to accomplish to take a step closer to your goals. It could be researching more information, making a phone call, or taking time to care for yourself so that you can be your strongest moving forward.

• Set intentions for your week.  Maybe that's a mindset/attitude that you aim to cultivate or a goal that you want to accomplish. Perhaps you want to map out what you'd like to get accomplished in any given day. Set aside time to reflect on what you hope to achieve in any given week, then make it happen.

• Beware of "superman syndrome" and make sure to boundary set.  Maybe you are going for a promotion at work and want to get ahead, and the plan for doing this is taking on as many projects as you can and never saying no to anyone. While this may sound like a great plan, it can also lead to getting burnt out, which may inevitably lead you to setbacks. Don't get me wrong, it is okay to take on extra commitments, either personally or professionally, but within limitation. Don't be afraid to say "no" if you feel yourself getting overwhelmed or stressed out. It's not your responsibility to be everything to everyone. 

• Celebrate small successes.  Feel good with your day to day achievements. Shift the focus from what is still left to accomplish to what you have already achieved. This can help you stay positive and in the moment. It can also help you stay patient with your goals.

Finally, ask for help when you need it! Your EAP offers a wealth of services that may help you accomplish a vast variety of goals. We can help you research something a little further, offer professional guidance, or simply just help you organize your ideas. We are also here 24/7, so if you are curious or would like to know more about how we could help, just give us a call. We are here.

Melissa Bailey, is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who focuses primarily on solution focused and DBT based treatment. She has worked with adolescents and adults in an Intensive Outpatient Setting, as well as with children and families doing trauma based treatment following natural disasters. Melissa specializes working with crisis, trauma, substance abuse issues, and holistic wellbeing. She currently works at Anthem as a Clinical Care Manager.