The new year awaits us...

This time of the year is all about you and your goals for 2009! I've thought about them, but how do you break them down into reality?

Well a quick Google search will land you something, but the Mindtools site is pretty comprehensive even if the video is a bit cheesy :)

Here's a summary of Mindtools' tested advice. It's an extension of the S.M.A.R.T. (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound) way of setting goals. Go to website for more details.

• State each goal as a positive statement

• Be precise

• Set priorities

• Write goals down

• Keep operational goals small

• Set performance goals, not outcome goals

• Set realistic goals