It’s THAT time of year. Yes, the time when we reflect on the old year and then make our New Year’s resolutions. Like many, I want to be healthier (Resolution 1) and add more value (Resolution 2) in 2023!
So how can I (and by extension you) help shape this year and our own behavior to realize our goals? Life teaches us whether personally or professionally, this starts by having a vision of success – what must I accomplish to be a better human, better friend, better colleague, and better leader? What must I do to achieve this vision so I can look back and be proud of my 2023 accomplishments? This act of visioning sets the foundation for our strategies – whether personal or professional.
But the vision alone is just the beginning. Without a plan to achieve important goals on the way to our vision, it will likely not materialize. Carefully thinking about the future, back-casting to current realities, and developing the necessary steps (changes!) we must make to achieve our vision are critical. My observations – keep them minimal. It’s better to accomplish a few key goals, than to be overwhelmed and not achieve any. In addition, take some quality time to figure out what to stop doing to free up attention and resources for the few critical things that must be done to stay on the path to achieve one’s vision.
Once the vision and plan are carefully considered– execute. To myself I’m saying, “Commit to the vision. Review the strategy. Each day take a small step that will put me on the path to execution.” Sometimes “old truths” are revalidated time and time again. As Vincent Van Gogh said, “Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together.”
At the end of the old year and start of a new one, I encourage each of us to think carefully about our personal resolutions to be set, the value we intend to provide, and then set an inspiring personal vision for success. Together we can take individual action toward a better tomorrow for ourselves, our families, our organizations, and all living things.
I wish you all a wonderful new year!
Randall Rollinson, President
