A new year is a fresh start.
Usually, Lunar New Year is a time to visit relatives, spend time with friends and family, and exchange gifts. Due to COVID-19, the way you celebrate Lunar New Year may be a little bit different this year but it’s still a good time to pause, reflect and think about your goals for the year ahead.
What can you expect from the year of the Ox?
Following the Chinese calendar, each year represented by an animal year, and five element years — wood, fire, earth, metal and water. 2021 is the year of the metal ox.
The ox is associated with yin, which is slow, soft and passive. It’s considered an animal of strength that is often linked with harvests and fertility.
The ox has a lot of positive attributes that you can apply to your own goals.
Set your flag
What do you want to achieve this year?
Ask yourself this question but be realistic about what’s achievable.
It’s easy to set a flag but it can be hard to stay motivated. For example, entering a grand slam tennis tournament is an unrealistic goal if you’ve never played tennis before. But playing tennis once a month is achievable.
If you’re unsure where to begin, break your goals down into categories like learning a new skill, saving money, fitness, finding a partner or trying to spend more time with family and friends.
Below are tips on how achieve your goals:
Be clear about your end goal
Start with the end goal in mind and work backwards to plan the action steps required to achieve your goal.
Break it down
Break each action step into smaller, more achievable steps until you have a plan.
Prepare for obstacles
Think of what possible obstacles might arise and come up with ways to avoid interruptions.
One step at a time
Focus on completing each small step on the road to your big goal, and don’t forget to celebrate each milestone to keep you motivated.
Watch: Lunar New Year at Medibank
If you need inspiration, we asked Medibank staff to share their goals for the year ahead. Make a commitment and share your goal in the comments.
Medibank wishes you all the best in the year of the Ox.
