Success, New Year, Goals, Resolutions! These are just a few of the buzz words that seem to become a part of our vocabulary around this time of year. With childlike excitement, we view the New Year as a time of rebirth, a time to begin anew. For many, the New Year also symbolizes a time to let go of all the baggage of the past year and embrace wholeheartedly that which has yet to unfold…
As for me, I can hardly believe that we’re already two weeks in to the New Year! It seems like just yesterday I was sitting beach side basking in the warmth of the summer sun. When I woke up this morning, it was 18° – yes, you read that correctly! So here I am now curled up on the couch dressed in multiple layers while typing out my very first blog post for 2016. As I sat down to write, I considered creating the typical “Happy New Year” post, but I decided to share something a little more heartfelt… something that will hopefully change the way you think about success… for GOOD!
Success is not equivalent to setting resolutions…
While New Year’s resolutions work for some, on average, only about 8% of the population actually stick to their resolutions after the first three months of the year. I’m not sure why the number is so low. Perhaps it’s because most people, although well-intentioned, often set very vague goals that are not well defined. My guess is that many people also lack a certain level of commitment because they don’t have the proper positive mindset practice in place either.
As for me, I’ve ditched the idea of setting resolutions and have decided, instead, to adopt a powerful and personal theme for the New Year. Here’s what came to mind after a long brainstorming session, “In 2016 I will be faithful, focused, and absolutely fearless each and every single day!” In addition, I’ve also carefully thought out and planned specific SMART goals that I intend to accomplish this year. I’ve collectively labeled these goals, My 2016 Business Bucket List! Getting crystal clear about what I’d like to achieve is one thing. Setting SMART goals that are both personal and professional is only part of the success journey, though. In reality, the real driving force behind success has more to do with mindset and discipline to take inspired action each and every day. That’s why…
I’m a huge proponent of positive thinking! In fact, I’m such a huge fan, that I incorporate it into my daily life along with my morning and evening prayer. I know these two things, while incredibly powerful, are simply not enough, alone. They must be accompanied by positive action! Yes, I know it may seem like a lot to do every single day, but doing one without the others and vice versa is not very effective over the long haul. This is why I also take inspired action steps as well EVERY SINGLE DAY!
Looking back on the past year I realize that everything I’ve been able to accomplish in my life and business thus far has been a direct result of prayer, adopting a positive mindset, and taking inspired-action steps every day. As we move full steam ahead in 2016, I’ll certainly be following my own advice as it’s proven to work well thus far!
And so it is with you, my friends, clients, and colleagues that I encourage you to create the life and business you most desire by getting crystal clear on your goals and utilizing the power of positive thinking along with inspired-action! I believe in you and I know you have what it takes to bring your dreams to life.
PS – I’d love to know more about your goals for 2016! Feel free to hit the “Reply” button and respond. Better yet, hop on over to my Facebook group, The Confidence Hub for Heart-Centered Women Entrepreneurs, and post your personal theme or phrase for 2016!
Thanks for a good post . this year I am setting intentions and my words are Bold Focus. Love yours, I will add in more prayer xxoo
Thanks so much for liking and responding to my post, Suzie. I love your theme as well. I wish you all of the best in 2016!
Peace and blessings,
Lisa Marie
Such a lovely post! I’m all for positive affirmations and intentions. Gave up on new year resolutions many years ago 🙂
Much Love and Light,
Z~
Thanks so much for the lovely feedback, Zeenat. I hope you have a beautiful, blessed, and prosperous 2016! I look forward to reading your blog posts as well.
Peace and blessings,
Lisa Marie