The New Year is days away. At this time of year, many people choose to take time to reflect on the previous year. What went well? What could be done better? I am one of those people. I love this time of year. Looking back and dreaming about the future inspires me.

For the last two years, I’ve focused my goals for the year on three words.  I learned about this technique through Chris Brogan’s blog at chrisbrogan.com. These three words aren’t goals themselves, but are words that define your purpose for the next year. After a lot of contemplation and thought, I do my yearly goal setting around my three chosen words. Then I post my words in visible places — such as on my bulletin board, in my calendar and as my phone wallpaper — to remind myself of my goals for the year. I revisit them quarterly to help me stay on track.

Last year, my words were as follows:

Leap: In 2012, I wanted to take a few more risks and push myself out of my comfort zone in both my professional and personal life. In short, I leaped into social media and took on the online initiatives for the HONU project. I knew little about using Twitter, Facebook and YouTube for business, but honestly I’ve had a blast learning, meeting many of you online and hosting the online heart health conversation for the project. I hope you’ll join us in 2013 by “Liking” us on Facebook or following us on Twitter!

Ignite: My ignite goals focused on projects, people and adventures that I am passionate about — those things that really light me up inside. By focusing on ignite, I was really able to say “yes” to the things that really mattered and to say “no” more easily. By prioritizing this way, I was really able to stay focused on the work that really matters, like improving the food environment in New Ulm. The SWAP IT to DROP IT campaign was one of those projects that lights me up! I hope you’ve felt the same way and have made healthy eating SWAPs in 2012!

Connect:  The value of connection with others as it relates to health and wellbeing has become more and more evident. Research suggests that we hang around with people like ourselves and those people have a strong influence on what and how much we eat, as well as how much we exercise. The HONU team has been working hard to build connections with the residents of New Ulm and to identify ways to bring people together to support one another in making heart-healthy choices. We will continue to make this a priority in 2013.

I’ve found identifying three words for my year to be very helpful in staying connected to my yearly goals in all areas of my life. My words for 2013 are adventure, aligned and creative. I will be spending this week setting 2013 goals that align with my words.

Whether it’s three words or traditional goal setting, use this time to set your course for the New Year. Making a plan will keep you on the path toward good health and future success. I wish you all the best in 2013!