I don't do New Year's resolutions. And I don't do the ever-popular S.M.A.R.T. goals (specific, measurable… time-bound) either.
It's probably a bit controversial for a life coach to admit this. After all, aren't I supposed to be leading by example? Demonstrating to my clients and my readers how important it is to plan their success with detailed objectives and fixed deadlines?
Above all, do what works for you
My coaching, and the way I help people create the life they want, is not about following a strict set of rules and schedules. One size does not fit all. It's about becoming deeply self-aware and doing what works for you – that is the very definition of living savvy.
For me, New Year's resolutions are bound up with negativity and guilt. Too often resolutions are made by picking on failings from the year past, and commanding yourself to 'do better'. And if you don't meet those high expectations, the negativity and guilt compounds.
My New Year reflections
Of course, the end of one year and beginning of a new one is a wonderful time to pause and think about the life you are creating. Rather than making resolutions, I have New Year reflections.
Step #1: I acknowledge what I have achieved in the past 12 months.
Step #2: I celebrate my achievements.
Step #3: I think about what is important to me, and what achievements I want to build on, and make a *short* list of my focus areas for the coming year (brief enough so I can hold them easily in my mind as I go about my day).
For 2009, I acknowledge:
- my courage and determination (together with the support of a loving partner) in bringing the Living Savvy dream into reality
- all that has been achieved with the Living Savvy project
- my efforts to live a life that is full and fulfilling, but not stressful for me or my children
- my decision to continue with my PhD on a part-time basis – keeping up something that is important to me, but doing it in a way that is manageable.
I will celebrate
the end of the year by kicking up my heels at the 2009 Babes In Business Annual Lunch.
In 2010, my focus will be:
- living all things savvy – another year of optimism, belief and focus
- enjoying my PhD research – it's a fun project and something I do not want to turn into just another 'chore'
- cherishing and enriching (with my time and effort) the people and relationships that complete my life.
Image by linh_rom
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