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It’s time to start considering what you want to achieve and improve for the coming year and set your 2016 goals. This time, consider a gentler approach, which can be much more effective than the dramatic changes we often pursue.

Quick results sound good–it seems we will immediately get what we want without a lot of effort (think “the 45-second total ab sculpting workout”). We like the idea of experiencing immediate benefits when trying to change habits such as how we eat, how we respond to stress, and how we operate our businesses.

However, when people try to make drastic, instant changes, the severity of the shift and going “cold turkey” can be overwhelming. Progress is often slower and tougher than initially anticipated, leading to discouragement and finally abandonment of the objective altogether.

Instead of making extreme changes, consider taking a more incremental, yet consistent approach. Of course, there are some dangerous, damaging habits that should be stopped immediately, however in most cases making smaller, gradual changes is the most effective way to build new habits. Think of it as gently rounding a curve instead of dramatically turning a corner.

Race car drivers understand the value of this approach. By rounding a curve instead of making a sharp turn to change directions, they

• maintain greater momentum while they make the change in direction,
• preserve their resources (consuming less fuel and maintaining their tires),
• keep better control of their vehicle, and
• can better anticipate the track ahead and respond more quickly and accurately.

So, in setting your goals for 2016, consider making gradual yet consistent changes to areas you want to improve.

• If you want to be healthier, resist the urge to begin working out six times a week. Instead, start with three lighter workouts per week. Progressively increase your activity as you get fitter and stronger. Also, make it about lifestyle rather than simply the number of gym sessions: get to bed earlier, drink more water, and slowly reduce your sugar intake.
• If you need more referrals, don’t take a scatter-gun approach and try to connect with eight potentially helpful people in a month. Instead, set a two-month goal to meet two great referral sources by February. Within four months send them two helpful pieces of information for them and their clients. By June (six months) meet with two more centers of influence and follow up with the same process.
• If want twenty new “A” and “B” level clients in 2016, break down what needs to happen each quarter. You need five new qualified clients every three months. How will you reach them? Maybe a sub-goal is to connect with some of your existing A clients more often, illustrating how you help them. Now, right before the end of the year, is a great time to send a handwritten note letting them know how much you’ve enjoyed working with them this year and that you’re honored to be a part of their 2016 financial plans and goals. People meet with more people over Christmas and the New Year and sowing seeds like this now can be very helpful to your business.

Have a wonderful Christmas season and a safe New Year. Get some rest and get ready to make 2016 a formative year in your life.

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