What is the Difference Between Resolutions and Goals?

The main difference between resolutions and goals lies in their specificity and the action plan associated with them. Here are the key distinctions between the two:

• Resolutions are statements of intention or change that you want to make, often vague and lacking a clear plan of action. For example, "I want to save money" or "I want to get in shape".
• Goals are specific, action-oriented statements of what you want to achieve, along with the steps needed to achieve it and a timeline for completion. For example, "I want to save 10% of each paycheck for the next six months to take a family vacation in August".

Some key differences between resolutions and goals include:

1. Goals are more specific and measurable, making them easier to work towards and track progress.
2. Goals often involve establishing new habits to help you reach your desired outcome.
3. Resolutions are often vague and can be easily forgotten, while goals require a clear plan and commitment.
4. Goals are written down and can be visually displayed to help maintain focus and motivation.

To increase the likelihood of success, it is recommended to set goals instead of resolutions. By rephrasing a resolution into a goal, you create a stronger and more achievable plan. Additionally, setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goals can further improve the chances of accomplishing your desired outcome.

Comparative Table: Resolutions vs Goals

Here is a table highlighting the differences between resolutions and goals:

In summary, resolutions are broader and more abstract, while goals are specific and measurable. Resolutions often lack a clear plan and timeline, whereas goals have a defined timeline and clear steps to achieve the desired outcome. Goals are generally more achievable than resolutions due to their specific nature and planning.