The New Year is a new beginning and time to set goals, plans and directions for your business. Take the time to write out your own personal resolutions and you will restore, revitalize and renew your spirit to take advantage of all that the New Year can offer. Here are ten suggestions to get you started.
- Do something you love to do every day – In interviewing over 80,000 managers, the Gallup organization narrowed down their questions that defined a happy, motivating, productive workplace to these three: (1) Do I know what is expected of me at work? (2) Do I have the materials and equipment I need to do my work correctly? (3) At work, do I have the opportunity to do what I do best every day? Those who could answer affirmatively to these questions were more likely to be happy and productive.
- Do something just for you every day – Between doing multiple things for your boss or colleagues at work and your family when you get home, you have very little time for yourself. Resolve to set aside time every day to exercise, relax, cook, write, garden or go for a walk. It will make a difference.
- Give yourself a pat on the back – In the Gallup survey mentioned above, this question defined the most productive workplaces. People who received praise were happier in their job. One way to recognize yourself is to keep a file of positive notes, thank you letters, and complimentary emails you have received.
- Learn something new every day – Read an article, discuss a new approach with a co-worker, research what your competitors are doing. In today’s high-tech world, opportunities for learning are multiplying very fast.
- Network – Attend at least one professional meeting each month and exchange business cards. You will benefit from the relationships you develop from active participation.
- Step out of your comfort zone – Sometimes you feel as though it is safer to keep quiet and not rock the boat, but try to break through your own self-imposed barriers. You will eventually find it easier to speak your mind. You may find your career will thrive as a result.
- Listen more than you speak – Plan to listen more to your employees and co-workers. They may just want a sounding board, not your advice. Your listening may empower them to take action and solve their own problems. As Steven Covey has said, “seek first to understand, then to be understood.”
- Make a “to do” list – Whether you choose a paper or electronic method for keeping track of your day, it will ensure that you accomplish your most important priorities.
- Take up a new interest – Maybe this is your year to begin a new hobby. If this is something that you have wanted to do, but have been putting off, this is the time to start. You will add a new dimension to your life.
- Do not take yourself so seriously – Take time to laugh. Don’t get bogged down in daily serious problem-solving. A smile is contagious…pass it on.