101 in 1001

(via icanread)

Starting last New Year's, Clement and I vowed not to make any more resolutions. Resolutions are vague, you forget about them, and they are never accomplished for want of "somedays." Instead, we decided we were going to be goal-setters with deadlines. We have a collaborative 101 in 1001 list on Google Docs, that we check in on every couple of weeks.

What is 101 in 1001?

It's a list of 101 things you want to accomplish in 1001 days, roughly 2 and 3/4 of a year.

Like what?

Everyone's goals are different. I Googled "101 in 1001" when I was making my list to get some ideas. I used a couple of cop-out goals, like "Finish writing 101 in 1001" and write another "101 in 1001," but most of them are sincere goals. Like the examples I found, I left a couple of blank spaces for this year (2010) and next year (2011) in case I come up with new things.

How do you get started?

The main concept behind 101 in 1001 is to create measurable goals. Consider using the SMART method - Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely. Remember that it is not a list of short-term accomplishments. For example, instead of "Lose 10 pounds," try something like "ride my bike to work 3 times a week for 100 weeks." Instead of "be nicer to my sister," try "take my sister out to dinner 10 times."

Do you have suggestions for writing it?

I think that every list I have seen has broken it down into sections like Finance, Try New Things, Family, etc. Remember they have to be concrete goals -- measurable and can be checked off once complete.

Can I see yours?

Clement and I have a collaborative list and some of it is quite personal between us so I can't share my list publicly. I have seen some people share theirs on blogs and it's a great way to stay accountable on your lists. Here are a couple examples off my list:

13. Host a potluck
20. Join Toastmasters
21. Complete Toastmasters Competent Communicator (CC) certificate

26. Read 25 new books

39. Make vanilla extract at home (Shanna)
44. Take a trip out of the state [1/1] - Vegas 2008

76. Go to a renaissance fair [0/1]

77. Go to a Lakers game [0/1]

(Black is for things we've completed, blue -In Progress, and red -Haven't Started.)

Instead of resolutions, why not make concrete goals and organize a list of the things you've always wanted to do? Don't wait for Someday, make it happen today!