This is the last Step Up Leader Tip of 2015. As we wrap-up the year-end, and “unwrap” our gifts, I often use this time-for myself and with clients—to do some housekeeping-both mental and physical. This can include taking an inventory. Celebrate and acknowledge yourself while creating a placeholder that helps prepare for what you want to focus on for the future. The key is to choose to consciously spend some time with the exercise. Most importantly, put on your favorite music and have fun with it!
Here are some questions to get you started for wrap-up:
[list]
[li]What are my top 10 accomplishments this year?[/li]
[li]What am I most grateful for?[/li]
[li]What have I learned this year that has been pivotal to my life?[/li]
[li]What has been my biggest contribution?[/li]
[li]What has been the source of my greatest joy?[/li]
[/list]
Getting Ready for 2016
To prepare for the New Year, I like to invite questions of possibility. For example, consider:
[list]
[li type=”glyphicon-arrow-right”]What is my theme for this year? (one or two words)[/li]
[li type=”glyphicon-arrow-right”]What are my top 5 priorities for allocation of my time?[/li]
[li type=”glyphicon-arrow-right”]What steps am I willing to take to ensure I am taking care of those priorities?[/li]
[li type=”glyphicon-arrow-right”]What do I want to start doing that I haven’t done yet?[/li]
[li type=”glyphicon-arrow-right”]What do I wish to stop doing? [/li]
[li type=”glyphicon-arrow-right”]What is one shift in how I think about myself that will help me move towards what I want?[/li]
[li type=”glyphicon-arrow-right”]How will I obtain accountability so I can move forward?[/li]
[/list]
I have a friend who is at a crossroads of her career and life. She is highly successful, and yet something doesn’t feel right. I invited her reflect on “the questions.” We all benefit from taking time from our busy-ness to explore those significant questions about what matters most to us. Times of loss, transition, or simply feeling “stuck,” afford the opportunity to do something different—to create our own, authentic life.
As you wrap up the year, and unwrap the gifts of this one, I wish you the gift of introspection, awareness, and courage to move forward—taking even one small step is the beginning.
Happy Holidays—and Happy Unfolding!