Whether we like it or not, a new year is right around the corner. Literally. The months that consume a year have been chiseled down to mere hours. Time continues to elapse. Quickly. Especially as we age.
A new year causes us to reflect, ponder, contemplate, change, and be introspective. Despite knowing that we can make changes any time in our life, there is something about the celebration of the new year that makes it much more real, tangible, giving it deeper meaning and significance. Yet, it’s this deeper meaning and significance that creates the space for pressure to exist.
Which of course, begs the question.
How will 2015 be different than 2014?
But, let’s be honest. That specific question is a very small piece of the bigger puzzle. To answer that proverbial question, several other questions – equally important – take center stage as we ring in a new year full of hope, promise, and the possibility of change.
10 (plus) questions to ask AND answer for the coming year:
1.) What didn’t I accomplish in 2014 that I thought I would? Why didn’t I? Do I want to move this goal into the next year or decide that that particular goal for myself has changed its importance, relevance, and significance?
2.) What prevents me from taking the necessary steps to achieve my goals? What are the feelings that arise when I think about the goals that I have set for myself?
3.) What are my triggers? What are the steps I need to take and plan for to prevent me from being sidelined by these triggers?
4.) What are my apprehensions about achieving my goals and dreams? Fear of failure? Fear of success?
5.) Will my success create a higher bar? If so, how do I feel and think about that? Will that make me run away and ignore the goal and move forward and achieve the goal?
6.) Are my goal(s) realistic or lofty? Why do I think this way?
7.) Is there anyone that would try to prevent me from achieving my goals and making changes for the new year? If so, who are these people and how will I prevent this from happening?
8.) Can I visualize my goals? (Being able to visualize a goal helps us that much more to achieving it). When I visualize this goal being accomplished what kind of feelings arise? Will these feelings propel me to run or stay the course?
9.) Beyond myself, do I have the resources available to help me achieve my goals or am I on my own?
10.) How bad do I really want it? How much “skin” do I have in the game? How vested am I in making these changes and reaching my goals? Am I invested enough so when people and other triggers come up, I can work through them and get to my end game?
Let’s not forget that making changes for the coming year is not just about creating a list of resolutions. It’s about about asking yourself the necessary questions so you have greater success at achieving your goals.
So, as I answer those questions myself, I ask you the same – how will 2015 be different for you?
Happy New Year! Be the game changer in your life! Make it GRAND!!
Kristin
