"The most important thing about goals is having one."
— Geoffry F. Abert

Motivating yourself to achieve what you desire is a difficult task, especially if you do not have a specific targeted goal.  Studies have shown that identified and written goals are often accomplished.  The process of setting the goals can be the biggest hurdle.  All of the information outlined below has been heard over and over again, but sometimes it helps get you jump-started. 

Some key life goals that we often overlook are related to, improving our health and emotional wellbeing. Life goes by so fast, that we neglect the importance of daily nutrition, exercise and mental stimulation.  In order to improve our motivation we need to have small successes.  We need to work on our bodies both physically and mentally. 

If you want to lose weight, set a goal to eat better.  Some steps you can take are to focus on better meal planning. Most of us know how to make healthy food selections we just get sidetracked. Write out a reasonable menu for the week, purchase the groceries needed to make your meals and set aside time each day to prepare them.  After you finish the week of great meals, you will feel better not only because you accomplished your goal but also because you ate well!

If you want to start an exercise routine, make a note on your daily calendar or planner to walk 15 minutes each day.  After you accomplish your walk, be sure to put a check next to the note so you can see your progress each day!  Again, the important idea is to make sure you visually see your success to achieving the goal.

To stimulate your mind, you need essential nutrients for your body.  Not only do you need to read to keep your brain active, you need to take your daily vitamins. Herbal Supplements can also improve your brainpower.  According to the Mayo clinic, herbs such as Gingko Biloba have shown promise in improving memory. (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ginkgo-biloba/NS_patient-ginkgo)  The point is keeping sharp mentally will always help you be at your best.

And what pulls it all together is something we all know that we control our attitude.  Have you ever been around someone who always has a positive outlook?  Think of somebody you see on a regular basis who makes you smile with every encounter.  Take some of their positive karma and attach it to yourself.    You will ultimately pass it on to others without thinking about it.

Why wait for the New Year to make a resolution?   Re-energize yourself by setting some new goals.  Whether it is losing weight, improving exercise habits or simply becoming more cheerful, you will immediately feel a sense of accomplishment.