It’s the start of a new year, and by now many of us have probably taken the time to list out all the things we’d like to do and goals we’d like to accomplish for the year. I’ll admit that I am not a proponent of New Year’s resolutions; I am, however, passionate about spending quality time reflecting on what success in the new year looks like for me.

For example, in 2007 I wrote down 3 priorities:

  1. Develop a stronger emotional health and well being at my core (I had a tough 2006).
  2. Ensure I would give my family and core group of friends my time and attention to further our relationships.
  3. Focus on taking Kinetic Insights to the next level.

These 3 priorities were my guides throughout the year. They helped me set boundaries for myself to stay focused, as well as say no to requests that didn’t align with my priorities. When I had a major decision to make (vacations, new business ideas, new board duties, etc), I checked my 2007 list to determine the impact on my priorities. I repeatedly asked myself questions such as: Could I spare the time to do the new things over and above what I needed to do to focus on those key things? Would the new responsibility distract me from my priorities?

On New Year’s Day 2008 I sat at the beach in California looking over the Pacific Ocean and reflecting on how I did last year. What a revelation: I met or exceeded my expectations for each of my 2007 priorities! I gained energy from the knowledge that living these priorities allowed me to accomplish so much, and I am invigorated and inspired to not only do it again in 2008, but to challenge my clients, my friends, and my family to do it for themselves.

If you are able to articulate your three 2008 priorities and what success looks like for you when you accomplish these, then this will guide your best year. Commit to them with pen on paper. Your priorities will dictate when you say yes or no to the many demands on you over the course of the year, guiding you on spending your time productively and not just working your task lists.

I wish for you throughout 2008, all the joy and energy this revelation has given to me this 2008 New Year’s Day!

At Kinetic Insights, our PathFinders are skilled in helping leaders unleash the greatness in themselves and in their organizations. Call or email us for a quick discussion that just might put you and your team on the path to significant change.

Gail A. Froelicher is Founder, CEO and PathFinder of Kinetic Insights, LLC. For over 11 years, Gail and her team of PathFinders have journeyed with their customers to forge successful paths in rapidly changing business environments.

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