Here in Michigan, we are masters at making multiple resolutions in both our businesses and our personal lives. We love to make them. We know change makes us better. We already are plotting our New Years’ Resolutions with focus and energy. We will lose weight, finish a project, hire six new people, exercise more, read that Dale Carnegie business book, or get that new puppy.
But alas, we end up doing none of that. By mid-February we are back to the old normal and we have not made any changes at all. It is very interesting to note that every resolution involves some kind of major change by definition. Is it that just the word “change” is tough to handle? Why do we fail when we plot these grand plans?
Here are eight strategies for successful change. We can indeed resolve to be successful.
- Change is not easy: Accept it. It is very comfortable to think change; it is very difficult to do.
- Focus on one resolution: Change is not a numbers game. What is your best resolution? Get it done, and in March, focus on the second biggest.
- Goals must be attainable: Be realistic. Losing 30 pounds by Valentine’s Day might be a bit of a stretch. Try just 10 and see how that works.
- Overcoming challenges and distractions: Do not get side tracked when you see very little results early on. Stick with it. Time is your best friend.
- Owning it makes it happen: This resolution belongs to you and you alone. No matter the change, it must come from within.
- Prepare a game plan: Thought and planning go hand-in-hand. Results happen when preparation is integrated into the process. Resolutions that are definable and measurable will better the odds of success.
- Put a date on it: The resolution must be completed by a certain date. Pick that month and day and focus with the end in mind.
- Be realistic: Resolutions and any type of personal or organizational change take time, effort, optimism, and improvement. Eat the elephant one bite at a time.
It is critical to remember that the vast majority of resolutions are never reached. Only a fraction of the thousands here in the Metro Detroit area will successfully reach their 2013 goals. It is great to know that we the ones that do! Everything is possible. Good luck and Happy New Year!
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Photo: Master Isolated Images, courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net
This post is brought to you by the good folks at Dale Carnegie Training of Michigan, providers of professional development and management development courses and information in Michigan. We would love to connect with you on Facebook and Twitter @MICarnegie.
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