Welcome to 2021. Like many of you, I start each year with some pretty big expectations about what the new year will bring. This year though, because of the ongoing impact of the pandemic, I have committed to taking bold action at every opportunity and am using 5 Key Words as a framework.
These words are:
- Reflect
- Focus
- Streamline
- Develop
- Grow
Let’s look at how these words will frameup your approach to 2021.
Reflect: Take time to think through the last 12 months noting what worked for you [in all areas of your life], where you could improve on things that didn’t go so well, how you were as a partner, friend, family member, parent, manager, business owner etc. and what you could do to change things up. Be honest with yourself so that your reflections inform the development of new behaviours or letting go of circumstances and people that no longer add value to your life.
Focus: Pay attention to the things that can and do go well, to the positive behaviours and outcomes. Notice the things that you can influence rather than getting stuck in noticing and investing time on the negative events and negative people. Focus on doing your best [with what you have to work with] every single day. Focus on being kind.
Streamline: Actively seek out ways to make things simple. You can coordinate your household so, as often as possible, most people’s needs are met – simply by communicating and keeping a household diary which everyone contributes to. Identify work processes which seem to be cumbersome and, working with those who are stakeholders in the process, figure out how to simplify and streamline things. Plan your days so that you are making the most productive use of your time. Consider streamlining tasks you don’t enjoy by outsourcing the gardening or car cleaning or bookwork.
Develop: Use your reflection to develop greater insight into yourself and to identify where personal and professional development can occur. Actively develop your knowledge in areas that interest you or that will build your personal or professional capacity. Develop a sense of gratitude.
Grow: Be deliberate about growing as an individual, as a parent, a partner and as a leader. Grow your networks, your physical fitness, your wealth, your relationships, your mental fitness and your ability to embrace this adventure called life. Look for opportunities to be outside your comfort zone because this is where the growth occurs.
Risk being Alive!!