Key Point: Many of you are acting exactly the same way as you were in 2014. You may think, “so what? What is the real difference between Dec. 31 and Jan. 1? This New Year’s resolution stuff is a bunch of hooey.” On the other hand, most of us do look for certain times to commit to a shift… To initiate a positive change… And obviously transitioning from one calendar year to another is a milestone time to do it. So perhaps you shouldn’t give up on the idea. IT IS NOT too late.
Please consider following the review framework to 2014 that I provided in my blog. You will see patterns that will be instructive for your 2015 plan, (it will take you about 20 to 30 minutes). Then apply the framework for building your 2015 vision and objectives as presented in my follow up blog, (same time commitment). The feedback on the value of applying this outline has been exceptional. Do you think it’s worth investing about an hour to review and refresh who you are, where you’re going and what you’re doing?
Now here is some additional insight to help you breakthrough regarding your 2015 success. The equation below is by a scholar named David Gleicher, as noted in a recent Forbes Magazine article. It was actually created in the context of organizational change management, but it works magic for personal behavior change, too. The Gleicher Change Formula states:
Dissatisfaction x Vision x First Steps > Resistance
The equation reinforces the understanding that the combination of your current dissatisfaction, goal clarity and specific action plan must be greater than the resistance (i.e., pain) associated with making the change. The power of this equation is in realizing there are two ways to win. You can increase the left side of the equation (the size of your motivation, goals and plan), or you can decrease the resistance on the right side of the equation.
Character Moves:
- Review my blog’s 2014 framework and you will identify areas you want to keep building on and things you are dissatisfied with (The “Dissatisfaction” in the formula above).
- Create a vision and objectives for 2015 (the “Vision” regarding the formula above) by applying steps from the 2015 blog.
- Identify key first steps you can take and remember small incremental steps are usually better, (the “First steps” in the formula above).
- Now add a little extra that people don’t spend as much time on. It can be a difference maker. Determine what keeps you from progressing and think about ways of reducing resistance, (the “Resistance” part). Remember that some action propels you forward. Eliminating resistance is taking away the excuses. And that little but important ingredient will help you make a meaningful forward shift in 2015 possible. You can do it. You’re worth it!
Less resistance in the Triangle,
Lorne
One Millennial View: People seem to get a smug pride from avoiding any celebration of New Years Eve. I’ve heard some people I know boastfully say, “I was in bed by 10:30 p.m. on NYE.” Notice how they never just say they did “nothing.” By telling us they purposefully didn’t participate, they’re sending the message that they outsmarted all us “amateurs” who attempted to ring in 2015 with spirit. If that’s what you prefer, great! Good for you! We’re aware you didn’t have to spend money, have plans go awry, you avoided a rough morning, and nothing went wrong. But also, nothing happened for you! You created no new experience. No effort was made. None. Is that how life or celebrations are supposed to take place? Not in my opinion… We all know the reasons why NYE can be a stress machine or disappointment filled waste, but with the right attitude and good company, it’s fail safe. The “non-celebration” is avoidance behavior and fear of hassle. With just a small amount of planning, you can create a much better story for yourself, and perhaps the perfect start to something new. It’s true, it’s not too late, but if 2015 feels equivalent to NYE, don’t be “in bed by 10:30 p.m.”
– Garrett
Edited and published by Garrett Rubis