Making the year count is a desire that we all have, especially in areas that are of utmost importance to us. That’s why we want to share how to make this year different through questions we think you should ask yourself.
1. Look in the Mirror
Ask yourself ‘Where am I today’? Do an assessment of where you are in every area of your life:
- Career: Focus on your job and the pursuit of professional success.
- Family: Remember to balance your work life with your family life.
- Friends: Take time to consider meaningful relationships outside of your family.
- Spirituality: Focus on the values and beliefs that give meaning to life.
- Health: Don’t forget to take care of yourself, your mind and your body.
- Fun: Think about the activities and experiences that bring you joy and laughter.
Consider the areas that need renewed attention or that have been unintentionally neglected.
If you aren’t sure about where you are today, ask those who consider the areas that need renewed attention or that have been unintentionally neglected. Look at how you spent your time last year for clues. Did you hear subtle signals about an area that needs your attention? A doctor’s warning, lack of growth at your job or a best friend claiming they never see you anymore can all be important input for you to consider this new year.
2. Repeat the Past
What has helped me change before?
Of course, you want to start anew this year! But consider exploring what has helped you change in the past and try it again.
What helped you make progress and reach your goals? Be very specific and use the strategies that have worked for you before.
The only way you can get comfortable with big decisions is through information. The bigger the decision, the more you need to know. Do online research but place a very high value on conversations with experts who can adapt knowledge to your situation.
3. Mind games
How can I get out of my way?
The mind is a powerful tool, we can do big things when our mind is convinced we can do it. Know your go-to fears and how you can unknowingly sabotage yourself. Research shows that 80 percent of New Year’s resolutions are over by mid-February. When the goal seems too big, too hard or too long, we go back to our old ways. Rather than be a statistic, break your goal into one-month resolutions. Focus on January one week at a time.
This helps you achieve your goals and make the year different for you.
4. Purpose
What is my why?
Most New Year’s resolutions are pretty predictable, such as; get healthy, get organized and so on. The key is understanding why these goals and others really matter in your life.
Commit to specific goals that fit the areas that need your time and attention, and have a bigger purpose. Know why making this change matters, rather than just wanting to lose weight or organize your office. Knowing your why increases the likelihood that you will stick with it when it gets hard.
If your why is building in more time for relationships and fun to enrich your life, then keep that why on a note and stick it to your mirror.
Recap
Twelve months of even small changes will have an impact. Find what works for you; find out what matters in your life, and get started. All it takes is starting in January, and being consistent from there.
These are four questions to ask to make your year different. Be sure to ask yourself these questions and answer them honestly. This year can be positively different if we can make these little changes.
Cheers to a different year!