Q. I am trying to think positive and stick to my 2015 New Year’s resolutions, but I admit I haven’t had success in the past achieving the things I really want. Should I keep trying?
A. It sounds like “trying” has replaced “being” (to use what might sound like a new-age term). It seems that you are approaching 2015 as a task—“I have to”—vs. being clear and focused. Don’t waste time making a long list of resolutions that you will try to achieve, OK? Join my friends and me: Each year we pick one word —for example, vitality, abundance, peace, or creativity—and live the word each day.
How? Begin each day with your word—for example, if your word is gratitude consider the following:
- How will I express my gratitude and appreciation in meetings, social situations, and the other places I find myself?
- Am I aware of the quality of my life? Am I grateful? Note: most people lose touch with what they have or what they have accomplished.
- Am I responding with grace and gratitude in difficult situations?
- What are the ways that I am demonstrating my gratitude to clients, colleagues, and friends and my family?
- Where is gratitude—or acknowledgment —missing? What can I say or do to acknowledge a contribution that my team, colleague, or client has made?
- As I end my day, what am I grateful for?
Recommendation: When you select your word, begin with a dictionary definition. You will probably discover that your word can be expressed in a variety of nuanced ways.
My word for 2015 is peace —calm, tranquility, peacefulness, harmony, order, restfulness and much more. As you make the important shift from writing resolutions to choosing a word, be at peace with yourself and focus on being not only who you are but also what you want to achieve in 2015.
Happy 2015