In real life, regarding important things or practically anything, “do overs” are few and very far between—if at all. Usually, you don’t have a second chance to get something right. For the most part, you either get it right, partially right or just flat wrong on your first (and only) try.
But the new year is the one time each year when you do get a do over. Think about it: The brand new year—with ambitious, new resolutions and a still-clear calendar—is perhaps the closest thing in life that we have to a do over.
And it happens every year! But you’ve gotta recognize this for the amazing gift that it is. Too often, people just show back up at work after the holidays and keep doing what they’ve been doing—with no change in approach or mindset.
Speaking of that mindset. Let’s silence any thoughts that begin with, “If I had to do last year over again, I would…” Instead, let’s focus firmly on today and tomorrow. This month. This brand new year.
Hopefully, you are like many and will approach this new year with the feeling of promise and promises. I believe that whatever our setbacks or trials, in and out of our offices, we live in the “promised land.” I thank God every day for that feeling, that attitude and that optimism for the future.
I challenge you to mine this feeling of hopefulness, and chart a workable course so that you’ll keep your resolutions and promises (to yourself, your success and to others). That’s how to have a great 2012!
Studies show that about half of Americans make some type of New Year’s resolutions. So take some time today and think about how to make the most of this year’s do over. Better yet, formulate your plan for how to “get it right” … no matter what “it” is.
You might want to start with this idea:
What do you want to …
- Do more of this year?
- Do less of this year?
- Stop doing altogether?
A simple list like this can have a huge payoff if you take time to fill in these few blanks and then put your ideas into action.
Want to increase your chances for achieving your goals? Put your list of goals on your computer screensaver. Post them on your bathroom mirror. Make a copy, and clip it to the visor in your car. Put your goals on the background of your phone. Make those goals part of your daily routine.
If you take time to write down your goals and really work your plan, you’ll end the coming year absolutely knowing you live in the “promised land.“ That’s the real, lasting value of a New Year’s do over.
CORSINI’S POINT
The new year is perhaps the closest thing in life to a “do over,” and it happens every year! Make the most of it! This is naturally the time of year when we all feel full of promise and promises. Use that positive energy to chart a clear path for yourself. Spend time this week reflecting on what you really want to achieve in 2012—both in and out of your office. Do so, and I promise you that you will keep your own promises and do what you do better.
QUOTE
“Promises are made not to be broken.”
— Alice Corsini (Marc heard this from his mom over and over when growing up.)