It’s that time of year again. You know, where goal setting and resolutions are at the top of our agenda.

However, it’s a sad fact that at least 99% of those New Year and January resolutions will fall by the wayside – by the end of this month! The traditional methods of goal setting also don’t suit everyone, especially those who are creative or more free spirited. If you’re tired of the traditional methods of goal setting and are looking for some great alternatives, here’s some to get you started.

Vision board

Creating a vision board is easy. Whether you opt for an online board in Pinterest or go for the physical large piece of card or cork board options, you’re basically arranging a collection of images that appeal to your overall dreams and desires. You can let your imagination run wild, selecting images, words and even materials that represent those things you want to achieve.

Intention setting

An intention is a statement or outcome you want to achieve – and this becomes the driving force behind your actions. When opting for intention setting, make sure you’re writing your intentions down – and making them positive too.

How do you want to feel?

In Danielle LaPorte’s ‘The Desire Map’ book, she talks about setting goals based on how you want to feel, as they really will turn your goals on their head! This is great for those who are tired of reaching for purely material outcomes and instead, want to opt for a life based on positive feelings.

Experience based goals

Similar to the above option, this is another great alternative. Rather than creating a list of goals you want to achieve (such as creating a Facebook group), you opt instead for experiences (I want to create an interactive Facebook group that has a positive, supportive vibe).

One word themes

The one word theme alternative to goal setting has really gained momentum over the past year or so. This is because it’s such an easy and often quick way to set your goal for the year – and it’s a kind of mixture of all of the above options! You take a word that encompasses how you want to feel or what you want to experience. Often, you can then print it off and place it somewhere prominent (like a mini vision board) and make this word your intention for the year ahead.

Whichever option you opt for, I have a final piece of advice for you – shorten the period of time you’re covering. Often, goals are set for the year ahead however, frequently, this doesn’t take into account any changes you may personal go through during that year. You may have a change in business direction or your personal values may change, in which case, your goals will then need reviewing. This is why it’s a good idea to make your plans based on a quarterly period instead.

Which method of goal setting and planning do you use? Have you tried any of the above and found them better than traditional goal setting – or are you firmly in the camp of tradition? Why not share your opinions and experiences in the comments box below!

Image courtesy of Michail Petrov/stock.adobe.com