Photo: Hidden Valley Resort
Photo: Hidden Valley Resort

New Year’s Eve is almost here. Do you know what you’ll be doing when the clock strikes midnight?

Better yet, will you be making resolutions this year? We all know how that one goes, right? We’re all gung-ho at the beginning. We’re committed to our resolutions like nothing else. Then, by the end of January (usually sooner), we’ve forgotten what they are or have simply given up.

So, to help you out this year, I’m going to tell you one of the keys to successful resolutions. You have to make them SMART.

You might know this from when you set your business goals. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely. In other words, don’t just say: I’ll find more gigs this year. Instead say: I’ll work one Friday per month at my local club beginning in February.

Notice the difference? This goal is very specific and gives you a place to start. You know now that you have the month of January to make yourself known to the club manager. The goal’s manageable, too. You’re not asking for the moon … just to DJ one Friday per month. The goal has a deadline (February). So, if you get to February and you haven’t been able to connect with the club manager, you can alter your SMART goal in whatever way you need to so that you can succeed.

Coming up with SMART goals isn’t quick or easy. But once you’ve got them, they are super effective. They keep you on track, and they keep your dreams alive.

Now, it’s your turn. Come up with a SMART goal and post it in the comments below.