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Dear Friends and Clients,

I believe in the power of New Year’s resolutions and I make them every year. I think about my goals and, with high hopes as January 1 approaches, I draft a few commitments. I do this even when by December the resolutions that launched the current year seem like distant memories.

Cynics may say that New Year’s resolutions are a waste of time because the resolve that energizes them seldom lasts into Spring. But I disagree. Great change often requires many fresh starts, and each new initiative can contribute to the change process.

The ritual of making annual resolutions is powerful partly because it causes us to pause, take stock and visualize what a better life might look like. And, even if our commitment ultimately flags, the energy devoted to making and maintaining resolutions helps us to modify our old habits and find new ways of doing things.

When I consider a single year’s achievements, it may feel like I failed to keep my New Year’s resolutions. But when I look over a lifetime of starting each year by trying to make a few changes, I see how much those resolutions have shaped my life. And in this issue I’ll offer some hints for success with your resolutions.

Happy New Year!

Warmly, Bev

Make New Year’s Resolutions
That Actually Make a Difference!

January 1st, 2008 * Number 73

History books say that even before the written calendar, Babylonians started each year by resolving to do better. Then in the Second Century, B.C., the Romans created a calendar that began by honoring Janus, the god of doors and beginnings. With two faces, Janus could look back on past events and forward to the future, and he became the ancient symbol for resolutions.

Numerous studies have examined the tradition of New Year’s resolutions and, while the findings differ, surveys suggest that about half of Americans will make them this year. Many of us won’t be able to sustain our resolve, but experts say that there are ways to make your resolutions more effective. Here are tips for making New Year’s resolutions designed to move you toward your goals:

Write them down. It’s critical that you write your resolutions and look at your list frequently. Find ways to remind yourself of your goals, like posting them at your desk, or print them on a card that you can carry around.
Start immediately. If you put off action, your resolutions will quickly lose steam. Begin 2008 by taking steps toward your goals.
Be specific. A vague resolution is little more than wishful thinking. Effective resolutions are realistic, detailed and have measurable results. For example, resolving to keep your office neat may not get you as far as a more precise commitment, like spending the last 10 minutes of each day putting things away.
Take baby steps. If your goals are too big they can be daunting and your slow progress may be discouraging. Break your long-term goals into smaller pieces and focus your resolutions on steps that you can take right away. For example, if you want to lose 50 pounds, develop a plan for losing one pound a week. Commit to that plan for the month of January, with the idea that you’ll make a new commitment for February.
Chart results. Whether you are dieting or trying to change your work habits, one of the best ways to reinforce your efforts is to keep a log of each day’s efforts.
Develop a support system. Many people find that they are more likely to fulfill commitments that they share with other people. Tell someone you trust about your resolutions and ask them to support you -- or even hold you accountable -- if you start to lose steam.
Expect problems. Recognize that you will be tempted and may stumble. Anticipate negative thoughts that might tempt you off course, and be ready to respond. For example, if you know that you can be lured off your diet with the thought that “just once won’t matter,” carry a card that says “every meal counts.”
Plan your recovery. Researchers report that people who succeed in keeping resolutions do get off course, but what makes them successful is that they start up again. Have a strategy in mind for renewing your resolve and a getting back on track. For example, schedule the first of each month as a day to review your goals, restate your commitment and fine-tune your plans.

Want Help With Your Resolutions?
For discussion of many issues related to achieving your goals, check out the Newsletter Archive on Bev’s Website. You’ll also find links to Helpful Books. Also, know that, in addition to providing executive coaching, Bev is available to speak about a broad range of issues related to your work life. Visit her website at www.ClearWaysConsulting.com or email to Bev directly.

Bev is associated with Executive Coaching & Consulting Associates.

Bev’s Tips for a Better Work Life is published on the first and third Tuesday of each month by Beverly E. Jones of ClearWays Consulting, LLC. Bev is a lawyer and former executive who now coaches accomplished executives and other professionals to bring new direction, energy and enjoyment to their work lives.

All rights in all media reserved. However, the content of Bev’s Tips for a Better Work Life may be forwarded in full without special permission on the condition that (1) it is for non-profit use and (2) full attribution and copyright notice are given. For other uses please contact Bev Jones.

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