First 90-120 Days; Keys for attaining your goals.

The first 90-120-day mark is an ideal moment to reflect, revise, and renew our journey for the new year. In this post, we investigate three keys for attaining your goals set out at the commencement of the year.

As we find ourselves at the end of the first quarter, we must take a pause and revisit the days spent. Looking back to the beginning of the year, to when we envisioned this moment and those ahead, we must allow ourselves time to consider how far we have come versus what we had set out to achieve. We set our goals, visions, and themes for the year ahead. We determined what we must attain and the different timelines for that, too. However, it is not everything we set out to do that materialises.

1. Taking Stock:

The first step in traversing the first 90-120 days of the year is to take a comprehensive inventory of our progress. This involves reflecting on the goals and vision we set at the commencement of the year and honestly assessing where we stand concerning them. One needs to do the following:

• Reflecting on Goals: Take the time to revisit the goals you set at the beginning of the year. Are they still relevant and aligned with your vision for the future?
• Assessing Progress: Evaluate the progress you have made towards each goal. Celebrate achievements, but also acknowledge areas where you may have fallen short.
• Identifying Obstacles: What obstacles have hindered your progress thus far? Whether they are internal (e.g., self-doubt, procrastination) or external (e.g., unforeseen challenges), recognizing these obstacles is the first step towards overcoming them.
• Refining Your Vision: Based on your reflections, consider whether any adjustments or refinements need to be made to your initial vision. Perhaps new opportunities have emerged, or your priorities have shifted. Be open to adapting your goals and strategies accordingly.

By taking time to explore these issues, we gain valuable insights into our current trajectory and identify areas that require attention or redirection.

Taking stock involves more than just a cursory glance at our goals; it requires a deep dive into our progress and the factors influencing it. This process can be facilitated by journaling, goal-tracking apps, or regular check-ins with mentors or accountability partners. Taking stock provides a chance to discover the keys for attaining your goals.

2. Embracing Failure and Success:

Failure and success are not endpoints but rather integral parts of the journey towards achieving our goals. Embracing them allows us to extract valuable lessons and insights that can inform our future actions.

During the first 90-120 days of the year, it is inevitable that we will encounter setbacks and achievements alike. The key lies in how we choose to perceive and utilize these experiences.

When faced with failure, resist the urge to dwell on disappointment or frustration. Instead, view it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Ask yourself:

• What factors contributed to this setback?
• What lessons can I glean from this experience?
• How can I adjust my approach moving forward to avoid similar pitfalls?

Similarly, celebrate your successes, no matter how small. Take the time to acknowledge your accomplishments and the challenging work that led to them. By embracing both failure and success with equal measure, we cultivate a mindset of resilience and adaptability that is essential for long-term progress.

• Learning from Failure: When faced with failure, adopt a growth mindset. Instead of viewing it as a setback, see it as an opportunity for learning and improvement. What can you glean from this experience? How can you use it to refine your approach moving forward?
• Celebrating Success: Similarly, do not overlook the importance of celebrating your successes, no matter how small. Acknowledge the hard work and dedication that led to these achievements. Celebrating success not only boosts morale but also reinforces positive behaviours and habits.

3. Building on What Works to attain your goals:

Identifying and amplifying what is already working well is essential for sustained progress and growth. This may involve recognizing successful strategies, productive habits, or areas of growth that have yielded positive results. Building on our strengths allows us to leverage momentum and achieve even greater success.

Consider:

• Identifying Successful Strategies: Which aspects of your approach have been most effective in achieving your goals? Take stock of the strategies and approaches that have been most effective in helping you achieve your goals. Whether it is a particular time-management technique, a networking strategy, or a productivity hack, identify what works for you.
• Cultivating Productive Habits: Consider the habits and routines that have contributed to your success thus far. How can you reinforce and expand upon these habits to further enhance your productivity and effectiveness?
• Leveraging Strengths: Finally, look for opportunities to leverage your strengths and unique talents. Whether it is your creativity, leadership skills, or domain expertise, find ways to capitalize on these strengths to drive your progress forward.

By building on what is already working, we harness momentum and set ourselves up for continued success in the months ahead. Remember, the journey towards achieving your goals is not always linear, but by embracing reflection, learning, and adaptation, you can navigate the inevitable challenges and emerge stronger and more resilient than before.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the first 90-120 days of the year represent a critical period for reflection, adjustment, and renewal. By taking stock of our progress, embracing both failure and success and building upon what is working, we lay a solid foundation for a fulfilling and prosperous year ahead.

As we navigate the remainder of the year, let us carry forward the lessons learned and the insights gained during these formative months, ensuring that we continue to move closer towards our goals and aspirations.

Incorporating these strategies into your approach to the first 90-120 days of the year can set you on a path towards continued growth and success and ensure the keys for attaining your goals are employed.