Bob and I are big believers in New Year’s resolutions. In fact, we always get an early start so that we have some momentum going when the New Year arrives.

When you start thinking about your goals well before January 1st, you have time to pick resolutions that are the most meaningful to you. And choosing resolutions that really mean something to you can make the difference between more of the same and living the life you dream of.

So, if you haven’t done so already, start thinking about your resolutions for 2016 now. If you wait until the calendar turns, you might end up picking the first things that come to mind. And you’re almost guaranteed to fail if you pick your resolutions that way.

For 2016, don’t just pick things you know you should do; pick at least one thing that really lights you up when you think about having or accomplishing it. In other words, choose a resolution that will drive you to its accomplishment instead of you having to drive it.

If you’re not sure how to come up with a resolution like that, here’s a suggestion for you.

First… relax. It’s early December so you have some time. Use this time to think about what you really want to accomplish next year, and why.

Make this purely about YOU and what you want, keeping in mind that you should always be happy, but not satisfied.

If it comes up that you to want to shed 20 pounds, volunteer, and make an extra $10,000 so you can live debt free, go with those things and start coming up with a plan to accomplish them.

But… don’t stop there. Go deeper.

I have a feeling there’s something inside that you want even more than any of those things. Probably a lot more.

Make up your mind right now that, while you may resolve to release weight or get out of debt, you are also going to do something big in 2016. Something that really excites you and will radically advance your life.

But what is that something?

Don’t try to come up with an answer right away. Instead, get quiet and listen for it. You already know what the perfect resolution is for you. You just need to let it rise to the surface and then decide that’s where you are going.

To get you started, ask yourself the following questions:

Is there a goal I’m not pursuing because I think it’s too late or that I’m not smart or good enough for?

What dream have I been putting off for the sake of pleasing my spouse or someone else?

Then, if necessary, wait for the answers.

Whatever your worthy goal is, remember we are all the same and we’re all working with the same laws…

Whether you want $10,000 or $10,000,000, or you want to write a short story or a book, you can get it by working in harmony with universal laws.

Once you’ve got the resolutions that are best for you clear in your mind, decide what actions you’re going to need to take to make them a reality. Not sure what actions to take or how to expand your awareness so that you can attain them? Go here before you do anything else.

Make 2016 the year that you go big. Choose your resolutions wisely before the calendar changes, and let your genuine excitement carry you into and throughout the New Year.

To more and better,

Sandy Gallagher