Given that 2020 was a year that none of us could have predicted, it’s hard to bring yourself to set goals for 2021. But I am such a strong believer in the power of setting goals that I encourage you to do it anyway. 
 
To kick off your 2021 goal-setting process, take a look back at 2020, odd as it was. Go someplace quiet, where you won’t be disturbed (easier said than done these days!). Write down your answers to these questions.

1. What were your significant accomplishments in the past year?
2. What did you learn about yourself and the circumstances in which you did your best work in the past year?
3. How can you replicate those things that produced success in 2020 in 2021?
4. What is one aspect of your life during the pandemic that you would like to keep in your post-pandemic life?
5. What is one major goal that you would like to focus on in your work life in 2021?
6. What is one major goal that you would like to focus on in your personal life in 2021?
7. What are you most concerned about in the year ahead? (You can only list three things!)

Once you’ve answered these questions, take a break. Whether it’s an hour, a day, or a week later, come back and review your answers.
 
Now make goals for 2021 that align with your answers. For example, plan to repeat actions that contributed to your successes last year. Develop goals that address your concerns. Set goals that get you more of what you want in your life in 2021.
 
Two articles I love about setting New Year’s resolutions:

• A Great New Year Starts with Looking Back

• 13 Tips for Sticking to your New Year’s Resolutions

Here’s to a year filled with health, happiness, success, and fewer Zoom meetings!