At the beginning of each year is a time to reflect on where we are and where we want to be. Some of us make resolutions and some of us have given up, knowing that these resolutions often don’t get translated into action.
One tool, I and other coaches have found useful, is deciding on a theme for the year. You choose a theme based on what you think will make the biggest difference in all areas your life, a theme that excites and resonates with where you are right now.
My New Year’s theme is “2010: The Year of Completions”. This is why. As a renaissance person, I am always attracted to doing new things, and to learning more about a wide variety of subjects. This has it’s good and bad sides. The good is that I am constantly expanding my knowledge and experience, and having a lot of fun doing it. The bad side is that I have trouble finishing the projects I start, and have put a lot of effort into.
Last year I focused a lot on creating programs and products for my coaching business. Some of these projects, to my credit, I finished. Many other projects are 70% to 90% complete. Yet it’s in the finishing that I will truly reap the rewards of my hard work. Having this theme is already helping me get some of these projects finished, and serves as a constant reminder of what my priority is this year.
What about your New Year resolutions? Is there a theme around which you could focus your intentions? Here are some possible themes: 2010: Year of Extreme Self Care, 2010: Year of Simplicity, 2010: Year of Gratitude, and 2010: Year of Embracing Creativity. Think of all the things these themes evoke, and what possible actions and outcomes they could involve.
Now get out a piece of paper and jot down some ideas of what your theme could be. Play around. Make a mind map with your ideas. Then take a break. Go for a walk. Take a bath and let your mind drift. Later come back to your notes and make a decision about what your theme will be. Yes, and make sure it excites you!
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