2017, Let's Do This!
Hey me,
A new year has begun! It’s been 72 hours since you first said “Happy New Year!” to your family and friends. Your phone still has those messages from others wishing you a successful and prosperous year head. Of course, I desire the same of you as well. You made quite a few strides last year despite some difficulties and a few disappointments. Yet, here you are ready to start fresh with a list of resolutions. You’re determined to make a change for the better even if the statics for achieving goals paint a disheartening picture. I’m aware that you will continue to learn and follow the guidance of the resources you discovered, but allow me to give you a pep talk so you can remain committed for the remaining 362 days.
Think better thoughts. Before you think about changing your actions, think about changing your thoughts. Regardless of how insignificant or lofty your goals may be, you will face an uphill battle if your thoughts constantly oppose you. Thinking patterns are like a path created in the snow after walking in that same direction over and over. Creating a new path (pattern) takes time and effort but it will affect how long you sustain a goal even after 2017. Commitment starts in your mind not when you’re under pressure. So, here’s to year of replacing negative thoughts for positive ones.
Here's a good place to start!
Learn to focus. Although multitasking is seen as virtue by some, part of your success this year will depend on how well you focus. There will be many urgent situations come up, emotional rollercoasters, and unexpected circumstances. Your focus will need to be deliberate and harnessed. Your life vision and values will assist you defining your focus. What kind of person do you want to be in the different areas of your life? Be specific. Don’t just base the end result of your goals on performance but on the kind of person you want to be. Choose everyday to focus on your most important tasks, write them down and commit to completing them.
Helpful Links: Setting Goals? 2 Steps To Achieve More With Less Stress
“Regardless of how insignificant or lofty your goals may be, you will face an uphill battle if your thoughts constantly oppose you.”
Pace yourself. In this fast-paced culture it’s tempting to start the year in sprint mode and arrive to your destination quickly. Don’t forget that you still have 300 plus days remaining, not everything needs to get equal attention at the same time. Give yourself the opportunity to focus on one area, celebrate the small wins, and pick yourself up when you fall. You will last longer and find yourself gaining more confidence. Pacing yourself involves creating certain routines in your life to ensure that you follow through on your plans. This isn’t about being lazy, it’s about recognizing that your life is made of daily decisions and small steps that result in meaningful changes over time.
Helpful Links: Intelligent Change - Productivity Planner
Congratulations. Most importantly, remember that your value doesn’t come from what goals you achieve. You already made it through 2016 and I applaud you for the tenacity, the courage, and discipline you will have in 2017. Love yourself and others in this journey called life.
“This isn’t about being lazy, it’s about recognising that your life is made of daily decisions and small steps that result in meaningful changes over time.”
I’m rooting for you!