Tamera_colorcloseup It must be going to be a very lucky year this year because it ends in “11” and my partner, Jennifer, says that 11 is one of the luckiest numbers. And, it means a doubly-lucky year for me as I just celebrated my 44th birthday, which is divisible by 11!  While I can wish for luck, I believe the saying that luck is when preparedness and opportunity meet, so I thought I’d share a few ideas in this week’s blog to help you be prepared for the opportunity when luck bestows itself on you.  You can use these ideas as you develop your personal resolutions or you can incorporate them into your 2011 planning with your team.

First, make a list and set goals for the kind of luck you’d like to have bestowed upon you.  Research has shown that you increase your likelihood of achieving your goals when you write them down.  But, before you determine your resolutions, you should take a few moments to complete 2010 so that you can leave it in the past and create a new space for 2011.  You can complete 2010 in a few simple steps: 

1)     Acknowledge what you accomplished and what you didn’t accomplish

2)     Make a list of things for which you’re grateful

3)     Identify any regrets and resentments you have

4)     Forgive those who you feel have wronged you

5)     Acknowledge anything else about 2010 you’d like to reflect on

With the new space that you’ve created by completing 2010, you can fill it with your new resolutions.   Keep in mind that they are promises you make to yourself, so they should be really important to you and things to which you are really committed.   Your resolutions should be specific, measurable and achievable.  For example, instead of saying you want be healthier in 2011, define your resolution by saying you’ll lose 20 pounds and run a half marathon in 2011. Or, declare that you will meet with two staff members a month rather than get more related to your staff. You can use our Resolution Worksheet to brainstorm and develop your resolutions.

Write your resolutions in a place where you’ll see – and review –  them often.  Take advantage of the initial inspiration and excitement from setting your New Year’s resolutions.  Get into action and identify some small, simple steps you can take to build your confidence and sense of accomplishment.  Share and celebrate your successes with others!

I like a new idea as a final touch that I learned from my colleague, Sylvia Lane:  write a letter to yourself acknowledging that you have fulfilled your resolution.  In her church where she learned this practice, they have a tradition of mailing these letters back to themselves on Thanksgiving.  I think the act of writing your resolution as if you’ve accomplished it will train your brain into thinking you already have so you’ll be more open to take the actions required to fulfill on them.  In addition, the act of gratitude will enhance your outlook and fulfillment in life – and ultimately your success.  As Dr. Wayne Dyer reminds us, “"Be ever so grateful to the Source of intention for providing you with the life force to express the genius that resides within you."

What are your New Year’s resolutions practices?  What New Year’s resolutions would you be willing to share?  Post a comment – we’d love to hear from you! 

Here’s to a prosperous, healthy, joyful and lucky 2011!  Happy New Year!

Tamera
www.convergencecoaching.com