New Year's Resolution

Yes, it is that time again for that annual All American activity known as making the New Year's Resolutions. Perhaps the wit and wisdom of Mark Twain speaks directly and honestly to how we really feel about out commitment to these resolutions.

Twain, in 1863, in New York Times wrote "Now is the accepted time to make you regular annual good resolutions. Next week you can begin paving the road to hell with them as usual...New Year's is a harmless annual institution, of no particular use to anybody, save as a scapegoat for promiscuous drunks, friendly calls and humbug resolutions..."

A rather harsh admonishment I think, but I must admit too many times I know it to be too true for too many of us including myself (not the drunkenness part). With that being said, why not make 2011 different! Pick 3 to 5 things that you really want to accomplish; things that are vital to you that if accomplished will really make a difference in you life, your work or perhaps improve you health or relationships. It's never too late to start.

I challenge you to look at what is vitally important to you, something that you know needs your attention, something you have known you should do but have perhaps have avoided. Make a resolution to do something about it in 2011. Be specific about what you want to accomplish. Write it down and determine what you specifically want to achieve, whether it being a business goal such as 10 more sales calls per week or a personal goal of losing 25 pounds. Make sure it is something measurable. Also, make certain you believe it is achievable and realistic and if the goals/resolutions are, challenge yourself with specific benchmark times to monitor and evaluate your progress.

When you achieve those bench marked goals, celebrate your successes, If you fall short, don't give up, refocus and make sure that your resolutions are still realistic and achievable in order to succeed.

This year, let the road of good intentions take you someplace you will enjoy, be proud of, feel good about and know that you have made a difference in your life. Happy New Year!