Reflect & Correct for a Successful 2010

Did 2009 live up to your expectations?

Chances are you had very good intentions but did you find that not all you wanted for the year materialized? Looking back at the year and reassessing, although it may be daunting, is necessary. There may have been some unexpected challenges that fell in your path that were beyond your control. But hopefully you can pick yourself up, brush yourself off and look forward with renewed optimism.

This is not the time to be critical of ourselves but this assessment is just a tool that you can use to create a better future. Look at what has taken you further away and closer to your goals. Be sure to include your successes no matter how small.

Did you have any goals?

I’ve learned that we do need goals. Someone said “Life will not go according to plan, if you do not have a plan!” Your goals should be very specific with steps written out on how you are going to get there and refer to them often. If you really want to go the extra mile you could actually view pictures (with you in them if possible) of the goal you are wanting to achieve. Really look at the picture and imagine the thrill as if you’ve already achieved it. That may sound a little “woo-woo” but stranger things are being proven these days.

Here are 6 questions to ask to help identify your goals:

1. What is the specific goal that you want to achieve?

2. Why do you want to achieve this goal?

3. Where are you currently starting from as it relates to this goal?

4. How will you achieve this goal? List each individual action step

and deadline.

5. Who will be involved in helping you achieve this goal? Identify

their specific role.

6. When will you achieve this goal? Identify a specific date.

Something that gets between a lot of us and our goals is our limiting self-talk. We may actually be sabotaging our success with negative thoughts about doing or achieving something. If there are any fears or doubts about doing a task to reach a goal you can bet you’re going to hear that little negative voice telling you “You can’t!” and throw a bunch of silly excuses in your way. Recognize that it’s just your fear talking and you can override it by negating that thought with a positive one. Give yourself some encouragement and even speak it out loud.

Even the tiny steps you take to move forward builds over time and will propel you to your dreams. Be consistent with taking steps forward no matter how small and believe that you will get there.

Another helpful tool is evaluating the “Wheel of Life”. Below is an example. Draw your own and fill up each area depending on your level of satisfaction starting at 1- extremely unsatisfied up to 10- extremely satisfied. You may find that your wheel is a little out of balance and some areas need more attention. It’s also good to re-asses every three months or so.