The Nice Advice by Leah Albert

Dear Leah,

Well here we are, the end of January, and I’m already failing at my New Year’s resolution of getting organized and getting my life together in general. 

It seems like every year I begin the new year with enthusiasm and gusto, only to let my hopes of a new me slip away very quickly. I feel terrible. Like I can’t do anything right. Can you help?

Signed, 

New Year Loser 

 

Dear New,

You’re not alone! I’m glad you wrote in. First of all, you’re not a loser. So many of us struggle with lack of organizational and time management skills.

All things in our lives, good or bad, begin with our self-talk. Be kind to yourself. Be sure you’re not comparing your progress, or lack thereof, to someone else’s. I’ve heard comparison is the thief of joy. I firmly believe it.

One thing I noticed in your writing is that your goals are very vague. “Getting your life together in general” is a huge undertaking! Break that goal down into smaller pieces. What areas of your life would you like to improve?

Finances? Building savings? Paying bills on time? Maybe finding a new job? Or are you like me, wishing there were more hours in the day for things like laundry and housework? Or the gym! I’d love to find time to get back into fitness.

Try setting SMART goals: Specific, measurable, achievable, results-oriented and time-bound. A quick Google search will bring up pages and pages of information for you to research. I like SMART goal setting because it challenges you to think about what’s truly important to you.

Take one thing at a time. Don’t overwhelm yourself. Once you accomplish one goal, you’ll be motivated to set another. And remember, be kind to yourself. Take care!

Leah

 

Leah Albert is a fictitious character. She likes wine and writing. Don’t ask her to be a matchmaker. Do send your questions to Leah at theniceadviceleahalbert@gmail.com.