Are you making progress on New Year Resolutions?
Like most people, at the beginning of the year you probably made a New Year's resolution or two. It is almost the end of January, how have you done so far?
You're not alone
A recent survey by psychologists at the University of Washington, found most people keep their #1 resolution for only two months. If you are one of those struggling to keep up with yours, don't give up! Doing well on your resolutions, both professional and personal, has a positive impact on not only you, but those around you. Here are a couple of examples of the many that could be applied.
Common resolutions, significant results
Let's imagine that your major resolution, as is mine, is to get in shape and eat healthier. Easier said than done, but think about the difference it would make if accomplished. Healthier people tend to feel better about themselves which boosts confidence in everyday situations. Getting in shape increases energy, which helps with that "3:00 PM letdown" every afternoon. I know when I have more confidence and energy, my work performance improves dramatically.
Another common resolution is to become more organized. Have you ever missed an important message or forgot to follow-up on a client because it became part of your "system" of organizing and was lost in the shuffle? I have been guilty of this on more than one occasion. Not only has this cost me income in lost sales, but it has hurt my reputation in the past. I vowed to become more disciplined with my organization and it has paid off with increased revenue and increased trust with clients.
Imagine the benefits
When you made your resolutions, did you make a list of how it would benefit you and those around you? If so, I would bet you are making better progress than those who didn't. If you haven't thought about all of the possible benefits of sticking to your resolutions, I recommend trying this. Try to think about all of great results that could come from meeting your individual resolutions. Think about how they not only affect you, but your family, co-workers and your company. When you do this, you will see that your resolutions have more value than you might have ever known. Good luck, you can do it!