"Okay, I'm gonna do it, I'm really gonna do it."

Whatever the "it" might be...

Get a better job

Save $100 a month in coupons and sales

Eat healthier meals

Work fewer hours

Lose 30 pounds

Change my additude about life

Change the way I treat my family

Break an addiction

Have a spotless house

Put $100 in savings every two weeks

Or fill in the blank________________

You've decided to charge head on, to start your day with less chaos, to let go of pride and say, "I need help."

This is the time that you need to look around you and think about the people who surround your life.  Friends, family, co-workers, your boss, etc.  Who do you know that is where you want to be?

I believe a mistake people make is that they want to reach a goal, and find a friend who wants to reach the same goal, so they become support buddies.

"Let's go on a diet together!"

"Let's quit smoking together!"

Support is a great thing, but what happens if one friend falls of the wagon?

"I went on vacation, so I couldn't eat right, and I gained 5 pounds."

I had a very stressful day, so I snuck a cigarette and then smoked 3 more."

The support buddy who has been faithful to reaching the goal may become discouraged since it has been difficult for them too, and give in to temptation since their support partner did.  I'm sure that there are others who have succeeded with their goals this way, but I think there is a better way.  And that is....

Find an accountability person.  The person you choose needs to be:

1.  Someone who has reached the goal you are aiming to reach

2.  Someone you look up to, and who is willing to help you

3.  Someone who cares for you, and will treat you with kindness, but also gentle sternness if necessary, when you are "falling of the wagon"

4.  Someone who will be your "cheerleader", who will inspire you to keep going.

The difference between the support buddy and the accountability person is that one has much more insight that the other.  They can help you learn a habit of pushing forward.  They are already where you want to go.  If you choose the right person, you will have someone who is gently pushing you because they really care and want to help.

When you have someone that wants to see you succeed, and who is willing to walk with you on your journey to your goals, you've really got a hold of something great!

Look around today, and think of who you may be able to ask to.  Don't be afraid to ask questions, and above all else, listen to their advice-try their ways.  Don't stay stuck in a rut, and don't be offended when they offer advice that isn't what you hoped to hear.  Remember that you are picking someone who truly cares, and is in it for you!