As we’re approaching the end of January, the big question is, how’s progress with those New Year Resolutions?
The list at the beginning of this year might have looked like the one above (NOTE: please replace those that don’t apply with your own…)
Typically, by the end this month seven will have gone, swamped by busyness. But we’ll have promised ourselves that we’ll get back to those.
In February, another two will fall as healthy eating costs a bit more and money is tight, plus it needs extra prep time when there’s so much else to do, and the memories of failing to take up golf years ago resurface…
Nine down as we enter March and just one left! The possibility of 100% failure looms large…
One thing at a time
Changing just one big thing requires resolve, resource, and time. Working ten at the same time will be painfully slow at best or totally fail at worst. And doing them alone requires superhuman powers and total control of everything in life.
Making a start is the right thing, but not on all of them at once. And please don’t think that becoming perfect at one before attempting the next is necessary. Achieving the right level of competence with the first will be a stretch but is both motivational and provides the impetus to start looking to the next.
The joy of accomplishment
Acquiring the skills needed to master something new is satisfying. For some, there’s only joy on reaching the summit – the goal is achieved. For others, the journey provides joy. Small wins and milestones that chart the progress made.
In all cases, satisfaction feeds and nurtures. Motivation to stay on track, keep going, and achieve new heights. Who knows where this can go?
Have a plan
Having a practical, workable plan is key. New Year Resolution lists are not plans – they’re hope, a wish list, masquerading as plans.
Some of your chosen ten are lifestyles changes, so require tenacity and endurance. Some are vague, so need refinement and goals. Others just need to be arranged, put in the diary, and turned into habits or routines because we want to repeat them.
A list turned into a plan becomes manageable, practical, and deliverable. And, remember, a plan is adaptable to accommodate unexpected changes or when more time than anticipated to complete is needed.
Conclusion
New Year Resolutions are personal but, if successful, they affect careers and the people around us. These are not once-per-year considerations.
I now coach executives and senior managers, helping them achieve more and deliver what’s important for their work. This reduces stress, unlocks potential, improves relationships of every kind, and brings joy. The joy of change is not only theirs but mine, too, as I observe their progress.
Improving your performance is a year-round activity. Forget New Year Resolutions and have a plan. Work with an experienced coach to develop it and be held accountable.
It’s an investment you will not regret.
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