We all know that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing and expecting a different result. So if you decide to recommit to any unmet goals (lose 10 pounds, quit smoking, find a new job, etc.), I have a few suggestions for taking the struggle out of the process.

Write your goals. You can write them in your journal, on your Palm Pilot, or on a cocktail napkin. The physical act of typing anything tells that “Google search engine” that is your subconscious mind to pull in resources, information, whatever you need to achieve that goal. Also, as soon as you achieve one goal, create another. Keep a constant “To Do List” for your life.

When writing down your goals, make them SMART:

Specific and Simple. The subconscious, which is where all behavior comes from, needs clarity and precision. Broad goals like “I’ll be happier in 2006” are too vague. As yourself, what specifically would make you happy? A new career? Make that your goal. The subconscious is a doer, not a thinker, and must receive the bottom line, crystal clear goals: “I’m enrolling in law school.” Or I’m being promoted to Vice President.” Or “I’m becoming a non-smoker.” Don’t flood the engine of the subconscious with TMI (too much information), such as complex business plans and financial projections from the data processing department.

Measurable and Meaningful. How will you know when you have achieved your goal? It makes it easier for your subconscious to help you achieve your goal. “I’m making $250,000 this year.” “I’m doubling my sales quotas.” These are “idiot-proof” measures that anyone (including her subconscious) can recognize and applaud.

Your goals must be meaningful to you. I can’t tell you how many people think they have no willpower or are constantly self-sabotaging. Actually, deep down, they just don’t want that goal. Maybe they keep failing the bar exam because they really don’t want to be a lawyer…they’ve been trying to please their parents or someone else. Make sure that your goals are in line with YOUR dreams, because that will be reflected in your work, in your health, in your heart, in your face and in your life.

Realizable. All Areas of your Life. Act like you have it now.

There is no point in pursuing a goal that is unattainable (although with quantum physics, the unattainable begins to be a thing of the past). It is an unattainable goal for President George w. Bush to have a third term. There are certain professional standards and constraints that we must adhere to and allow to guide us in setting our goals.

Act like you have it now, and it’s just a matter of time before it becomes a reality. This is not an illusion…unless, of course, you are constantly claiming that you are the Queen of England. You begin to call yourself to a higher level, removing fears and obstacles from your path and summoning all the forces around you to align with the new you. it is a rehearsal. You are training your subconscious to draw your attention to your goal of manifesting it. You will be surprised and amazed at how many “coincidences” start to occur when you stick to your commitment.

Realistic and Responsible. Our goals must be realistic. I can hardly hope to become a lawyer if I haven’t finished law school and passed the bar exam. Our objectives must be in line with our training, experience, as well as our desires.

Set responsible and green goals. It may not be responsible to open a liquor store if your spouse is an alcoholic. Reconsider any goals that could harm the environment or cause suffering to others.

Timed and To. Give your goal a deadline date (first quarter of next year in March, in 5 years, etc.). If you miss the deadline, you don’t need to punish yourself. Just restart it and recommit. Quantifying and qualifying goals keeps us moving and fosters a fun, sportsmanlike spirit. When we simply say, “I’m becoming a better golfer,” then missing just one shot has technically made you a better golfer. Setting a specific goal (“I’m consistently scoring within 3 points of par by the end of this year” gives you a healthy sense of urgency to achieve your goal.

You might consider designing a goal that moves towards something positive or pleasant instead of moving away from something negative or painful. When we want a new job simply because we hate our current one, we are likely to recreate the same misery, if not worse. This is because we get what we focus on. For example, the dream of Martin Luther King, Jr. was not based on turning people away from racial injustice, oppression, and discrimination, but was based on brotherhood, equality, and freedom for all. Use this as a map to a world of difference and power in achieving your goal.

So instead of focusing on losing 20 lbs. Since you’re a fat pig who can’t get his clothes, focus on overall health and fitness and getting back to that ideal suit size. The first mentality has a limited negative charge (below) and the second is positive (above) and unlimited. Where are there more possibilities: in outer space or on earth?

Now go out and achieve your goals!