As we begin the new decade, I challenge you to think of all the wonderful things you have accomplished and what you have now, front of you TODAY. Take that positive energy into 2020 as you plan what the decade will look like for you.
Here are three great ways to generate more good things in 2020:
- Wallow in what brought you success in 2019
Yes, wallow like an animal (I like to think of elephants) in the joy of success. To do this, I go back through my calendar, week by week, and look at the appointments I made and the people I connected with. It’s amazing to see what I accomplished!
There’s a saying that people overestimate what they can do in a year, but underestimate what they can do in three years. Does that speak to you? If it does, do this small exercise of walking through your 2019 calendar and be amazed at what you did in the past year! It will inspire you to think about what you can accomplish not only in 2020, but all the way through 2023.
No, it’s not too early to create a three-year plan – you’re setting high goals for yourself. Isn’t that how you’d like to live your life and run your career or business?
- Set aside an appointment every week to accomplish one BIG goal
If you’re like me, you’re run by your email or your calendar. Let’s make SURE that it’s your calendar driving you in 2020 and, instead of putting out fires and answering emails, you’re focused on accomplishing ONE goal. Choose that one big goal – ANY goal – and assign a specific date to it.
Speaking for myself, late on Friday afternoons is typically when I devote time for MY big goals. I’ll block out an hour (or two!) and hunker down, working. Sometimes, I get so involved that I lose track of the time!
The big question is: will you HONOR that appointment with yourself? Are you WORTH it? The answer, of course, is YES, you are. If your goal is to grow your business, or write a book, or to change something else in your business (or life), devoting one hour a week to yourself is certainly worth it. Set aside that time and honor yourself.
- Thank your employees, customers, and family
I’m not talking about gifts – I’m talking about heartfelt thanks to each and every person who helped you reach your goals this past year. Because if you’re reading this now, you have a LOT to be thankful for: from seeing the sun rise every day to overcoming great obstacles along the way.
Did you do this alone? Who helped you? Who was pivotal in shaping who you are and where you are today? Make a point of thanking them: by phone, or a hand-written note, or taking them out for breakfast or lunch. You’ll be amazed at how good YOU will feel, thanking someone else for the role they’ve played in your career or life.
I wish you and those you care about the best in 2020. If I can be helpful, please feel free to reach out to me or to pass my information along. And THANK YOU for reading my posts!
