What Are You Wishing For?

Too many executives talk about "just getting through the year." It's as though they're afraid to commit to anything new or different to achieve big goals. They may have been thrown some tough curves last year. It seems too risky to aim high, only to be disappointed again.

Whatever your wish, turn your wish into a firm commitment for the New Year. Then create a plan you can execute to get results.

The best leaders are working hard to keep a positive picture of the future in front of employees. They're not daunted by negative news. Adversity fuels determination, innovation…new ways of thinking and strategizing to create value.

These leaders understand strategy is no longer "an exercise to do whenever we can get people together." Strategy is ongoing — a required discipline for success.

As you formulate your strategies for the New Year, engage your team, partners or advisors.

Some questions to think about:

•  What will you do differently this year?
   Maybe you'll be more strategic, a common goal for many executives with whom I work. Perhaps you'll delegate more. Or you'll be more visible. Will you take more risk?  Think bigger? Establish stronger partnerships? What lessons did you learn to help you avoid pitfalls in the coming year.

•  What can you eliminate, or stop doing?
   There are inevitable obstacles that will interfere with your progress. While you can't control some of the obstacles, you can control other impediments like unproductive meetings, faulty processes, disorganization, incessant worrying or negative attitudes. 
•  What is your big wish for the New Year?
   Project yourself into the future. Describe the best case scenario. See the picture you want to create. Set high expectations. Spend more time developing and pursuing opportunities instead of being consumed by challenges.

The New Year is the perfect time to wish. This can be a year of business and personal transformation. Set meaningful goals that you're excited to pursue. You'll position yourself and your business for new growth and possibilities.

PS: For more ideas to prompt your thinking about goal setting, see the goal setting exercise at my blog:
Goal Setting Exercise  

On the Lighter Side

Having the world's best idea will do you no good unless you act on it. People who want milk shouldn't sit on a stool in the middle of a field in hopes that a cow will back up to them.          ~Curtis Grant 

Leadership Resource

Speaking of cows, and taking action, my new book, Take the Bull by the Horns: The Busy Leader's Action Guide to Growing Your Business…and Yourself, is a great leadership tool to help you achieve your biggest business and personal goals.

Order the print copy and/or audio program today to help you take charge in the New Year!

International orders may be placed through
Amazon.com
In Canada, call 905-276-4090.

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