This time of year, I find myself in a push-pull dynamic. The expectation of the new year is pushing me forward, but the intense activity of the three months since “back-to-school” is pulling me towards being passive. What can we do to put things in motion so that the New Year can ease in gently? Like the wind-up in a tennis serve, taking a look back can help power your planning. Here are some review questions that are more personal than the typical work review. They are adapted from my own coach (www.coachcat.com) and have been very helpful to me:
Who was I in 2011? At the end of the year versus the beginning?
When was I powerful? What was I doing?
When was I fearful? When did I impede my own progress?
Who/what supported me when I was at my best?
What were my Successes?
What were my Oprah moments?
Where did I fail in my objectives?
Where did I let myself down?
What are the habits I am ready to leave behind?
What changes in myself am I happy about?
What do I see now that I didn’t see at the beginning of the year?
I find this exercise indulgent and practical all at once. I hope you enjoy it.