I have never been one to make New Year’s resolutions. Instead, I like to make resolutions on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis, adjusting as life events happen or my goals evolve. Toward the end of the year, I reflect on all that I have accomplished over the past year, the people who made a positive impact on my life, and for all of the new things I tried and incorporated into my life.
On New Year’s day, I was watching “The Bucket List” and there was a quote in the introduction that resonated with me long after the credits had rolled. “I believe that you measure yourself by the people who measure themselves by you,” it said. This reminded me what life is about and what every year is about. Rather than just make an effort to be better on January 1, I want to constantly work to improve myself every day of every year.
While I won’t call these New Year’s resolutions, I do want to share these two things that I believe can help everyone achieve the goals they have resolved to work toward this year:
1. Make a Plan Daily
At the end of every day, I write a list on a sticky note of the goals I want to accomplish the next day. By putting these thoughts on paper, I can fall asleep knowing that I don’t need to worry about tomorrow because there is already a plan in place. As a result, I sleep as soundly as a baby. In the morning, I review my list and incorporate it into my calendar. I schedule each task by the hour and cross it off my check list as I go. Even simple checks of boxes add up and feel like a great accomplishment. I am more productive and I have greater momentum going into the next day.
2. Show Gratitude Daily
As the dictionary defines it, gratitude is “the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.” Too often we get caught up in our day and we forget to take a moment and be thankful for all that we have in life. Beyond setting aside time to reflect on my blessings in life, I like to be open to gratitude and to show and return kindness at any moment of my day. Gratitude can be the smallest of gestures, whether it’s holding the door open for someone or complimenting a coworker on her positive attitude or other quality. I truly believe that you get what you give. The more kindness you show, the more you receive.
Whatever your goals and resolutions for this year, you can easily incorporate these two elements to see better results. I’m excited for this new year and can’t wait to see what 2016 has in store for me, my loved ones, Sundriven®, and my Sundriven® team who I am so thankful for - Shaun, Jenna, Art, Sean, Melissa, and Alissa.
Happy New Year!
- Mitzi Runyan
Leave a comment