Be It Resolved…

As we start a new year, we tend to look at personal goals; at least we pay lip service to them in the form of New Year’s resolutions. Despite best intentions, these resolutions – goals – are often forgotten in short time. Today’s culture has no shortage of issues. We live in a microwave society filled with instant gratification and short attention spans. Because of this, many of us lack the necessary determination and motivation to reach our dreams. We’re used to receiving immediate service and speedy results. We increasingly seem depleted of ambition, which drains our work ethic. We desire instant success with immediate self-gratification, but the real world doesn’t function that way.

In my book, Jack in the Box, I talk about the masks we wear in our everyday lives. In order to live an authentic life, we have to remove the masks we wear. That means learning to deal with the realities of life and making the best of what’s available, based on how we envision our lives as parents, as professionals, and as people.

There are many resources that provide insight and guidance into ways we can improve ourselves in any of the roles we play, otherwise our life becomes an act – a long-term game of pretend that can have far-reaching consequences. We just have to be willing to want to be better and seek out the information to make it so.

Learn to listen.

The most important lesson you need to learn in life is to LISTEN, not just hear people talk but what they’re trying to convey. That old adage about listening twice as much as you talk – because you have two ears and only one mouth – is simplistically true. Talk when it’s your time to speak. Ask questions if there’s something you don’t understand. Write down important details immediately; don’t trust your memory.

Learn to take constructive criticism.

Don’t take it personally! The “constructive” part is to help make you better at your job, your relationships, or anything you do. Learn life lessons from older generations. Don’t turn a deaf ear when they start with stories of “when I was your age” or “back in my day.” They’re really trying to teach you a valuable lesson based on what they’ve learned in their lives and seen of the behavior of your generation.

Be financially responsible.

Learn the value of money, credit cards, and how to establish credit. (Warren Buffet recommends reading The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham). Don’t spend more than you earn. Pay your bills on time. Know your credit score. Be patient. Success takes TIME.

Be a lifelong student.

Never stop learning in ALL walks of life, especially your profession. Pursue continuing education, attend seminars, make an appointment to see a counselor, read books.

Be healthy.

Eat a healthy diet, exercise at least three times per week, walk, run, join a gym or exercise class, stretch. Go outside and get a little sunshine and Vitamin D. Get yearly checkups to ensure you’re doing the right things for your age, gender, and family health history.

Be family-oriented.

Make your family your number one priority. Besides your health, nothing is more important.

Be a good citizen.

Give back. Help your community and nonprofits that serve that community. Contribute and volunteer. There is no greater reward.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!