Some Year End Thoughts

As we rapidly approach the end of another year it is important to not only begin to plan for the upcoming year, but to also take some time to reflect back on the last 12 months. They often say that in order to know where you are going you need to take a look at where you have been.

The following are a few thoughts to keep in mind as you take a look back and begin to take a glimpse ahead.

- No matter what you do in life you need to have a plan. The other day I heard former NFL player and head coach Herm Edwards say that "a goal without a plan is just a wish." We all want to do better in our business and our personal lives but without a clear cut strategy to actually achieve this, it really is nothing more than a wish.

- Create accountability for not just those around you, but yourself as well. To me one of the greatest motivators in life is a mirror. If you cannot look yourself in the eye, then who else in this world can you? While nobody is perfect, we can still strive for perfection. In order to do this you have to be willing to make an honest assessment of yourself and also be willing to change the things about yourself that are getting in the way of your goals.

- One of the biggest lessons I learned this year is that you are far more effective in your life when you enjoy what you are doing. To be able to get up everyday with a true sense of enthusiasm for what needs to get done makes doing it a pleasure, not a chore. There will always be unpleasant tasks that you have to do, but never stop striving to gear your energy towards the things in life you enjoy the most.

- While reflecting on the past can be a positive experience, dwelling upon it is a waste of time. Getting caught up in things that cannot be changed will only sap the energy that can be applied toward things that you are able to change. We need to use the past as a tool for understanding what has worked and what has failed. Resist the temptation to use it as a crutch or an excuse.

- The most important thing I rely upon on a daily basis is my faith. Primarily, faith in God and faith in myself to try and listen to what he is telling me. Your life is very simply a series of roads. Each crossroad in your life is a decision. Each decision you make is another road you go down. Your goals are your destination and your faith is your GPS.