Nix New Year's Resolutions

What does the start of a new year mean to you?  Is it a fresh start, a “do over” or a time to reevaluate what’s next?
Rather than traditional resolutions, we propose some alternatives that you can incorporate into your New Year’s traditions:

• Map a Path – focus on results not the actions.  Start with the end of the year. On January 1, 2015 what do you want to look back and see that was accomplished?  Who will you be?  What will you acquire?  What will you experience?  Figure that out and then map the path to get there.  As Stephen R. Covey says, “begin with the end in mind.”
• Set a Theme – we shared this idea in our 2012 Thoughtful Themes tip but it’s a great idea that bears repeating.  Rather than make resolutions you set a theme that guides the year.  It’s a way to determine your decisions and direction without unrealistic expectations attached.
• New Habit – Charles Duhigg unpacks the mystery of habits in his book The Power of Habit.  The latest edition of Costco Connection had a great summary of the habit loop.  By understanding the cue, routine and subsequent      reward you can reprogram your habits for improved results.  Consider a new habit or two that will create the results you desire for 2014.

Whether you map a path, set a theme or create a new habit, we wish you a Fantastic 2014.