How to effectively set realistic goals for 2022

With the pandemic still in full swing, 2021 has been a tough year for many. Some have struggled with slow business, loss of employment, renewed lockdowns and not being able to see family and friends. So, it's no wonder that many of us are hesitant to make future plans and set goals. However, no matter how hard the previous year has been, every new year brings the possibility of new opportunities.

So, how do you set realistic goals for yourself and stick to them without getting overwhelmed by everything that's going on? Let's explore:


How to make more time for family and friends in the new yearWith our busy lives and dealing with the stress of the pandemic, making quality time for friends and family can be tricky. Yet, it is incredibly important to stay in touch. Considering that around 41% of adults reported symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorder during the pandemic, it is essential to reach out to loved ones regularly.

Ask yourself: What's getting in the way? If your work or other activities are keeping you from spending time with your loved ones, it's time to update your schedule. Try not to bring work home after hours and, if possible, keep your weekends free. It's also wise to set out times in your diary for specific dates with family and friends.



How to set a budget and stick to it
One of the most popular new year resolutions is saving money and more satisfactory money management. However, few succeed in getting it right. Considering that South Africans are spending 75% of their take-home pay on debt, money management is a major problem in the country.
Setting up a budget and sticking to it can be tough, but with the right guidance, it is possible. Some guidelines for personal budgeting include:

• Listing all expenses for every month and identifying areas where costs can be reduced.
• Setting smaller budgets for monthly expenses, including clothes, groceries and rent, and allocating money towards it before buying extras.
• Weighing up the benefits of big purchases and making sure it's adding value and not stressing your budget.
• Avoiding debt at all costs and rather putting money away in a savings account for 'nice to haves'.
• Automating savings every month.
• Researching specials before making purchases on things such as groceries, clothes, electronics.
• Using a budgeting app to track your progress.

How to exceed in your job
According to studies, 36% of South Africans are either fairly satisfied or very dissatisfied in their jobs. Being unhappy at work can lead to exhaustion, and becoming overwhelmed, anxious and stressed. The new year is the perfect time to evaluate your performance in your job.
Being successful and productive can lead to enhanced mental health, incentives and increased general happiness. But it requires more than just participation. It demands being proactive. Here are a few ways to exceed in your job in 2022:

• Understanding your employer's expectations and making sure you know your company's culture.
• Maintaining a balanced viewpoint, having a positive outlook and resisting the urge to complain.
• Taking initiative and bringing fresh ideas to the table.
• Assessing your own performance over time.
• Keeping an open mind about learning and being willing to update your knowledge and skills.

How to be more organised
Getting organised is a great goal. However, you're going to need some concrete strategies to follow through on it. Some tips to help you get it right include: 

• Avoiding impulse purchases to avoid more clutter
• Making cleaning a priority at home and work each day
• Setting aside a few minutes each day to work through emails
• Setting up files to keep track of paperwork

Sticking to your goals in 2022
No matter how good your intentions are when you establish your new year's goals, it's tough to get changes to stick. Here are a few points to keep in mind when setting up your list of resolutions:

Be specific
Share your goals with others to increase the level of accountability
Review your resolutions regularly
Get back on track if you fail

Get excited about your goals
Despite the best of intentions, once the glow of a fresh new year wears off, many of us struggle to work on our goals. But setting resolutions can help you get off to a good start. So, keep the above guidelines in mind and get excited about working on your resolutions and reaching each goal in good time.