So, did you choose some resolutions or goals for 2014?
I admit I’m a recovering Type-A personality. You know the type – the ones with the color-coded, categorized resolution chart and vision board? Yes, that was me, for many years. I thrived on it and just ate it up. I loved it.
A few years ago, I had to give it up. I realized I was living for my list and that long had taken over and was ruling me. I began to feel my self-worth was tied to whether or not I had marked enough items off. I gave myself no mercy or grace for when circumstances got in the way. A break was very much needed.
Last year, I heard this idea of a “theme” or “word for the year” and it really resonated with me. I thought of a topic that was important to me and that I resolved to focus on. I didn’t pick particular goals or create a list to check off, but I did focus on that topic and make choices throughout the year based on it. And that really worked for me.
This year I am choosing a combination of the two, but still trying to stay away from creating a list of items that need to be checked off so the year can be considered successful. I chose my word/theme, and each month I’m going to try new things based on that theme. Similar to the idea of starting new habits and routines, instead of taking things away. So far, it’s working for me.
I’d love to challenge each of you, especially those of you that are so “anti-New Year’s Resolutions” to not give up on the idea completely. Look for a concept of this that fits your natural behavioral style. And be sure to think about this in relation to your career and work. And the end of the year, where would you like to be? What would you like to see changed? This is a perfect time to allow yourself to dream!
Are there particular skills or training you want to pursue? New projects you want to try? Think about building your network and how that might expand your opportunities. You don’t have to make a list of 30 goals, just pick a few. Choose at least one “experiment” to try something new, and one thing to “let go.”
Are you still having difficulty nailing your idea down? It’s not too late to figure it out. I’ve listed a few articles below to give you some new ideas. And let’s chat so we can brainstorm and daydream together. Contact me at JulieMendez@jsmcareercoaching.com and we will figure out how to take that idea and make it a reality!
A Fresh Approach to G.O.A.L.S.
7 Tips for Sticking to Career Goals in the New Year
14 Ways To Be Better At Your Job In 2014
Getting off to a fresh start in 2014
Mentally Strong People: The 13 Things They Avoid
The Kind of Goals God Blesses
5 Reasons Why You Should Commit Your Goals to Writing