New year, new heights

No matter how bad the previous year might have been, we all approach a new year with optimism and much excitement, and 2014 will be no different. This year, unless we change our perception of how we achieve success, many dreams will be left abandoned. Take a few minutes to evaluate what you want to happen in 2014 and write out a plan of action with the following tips in mind.{{more}}

Be ready to pay the price. No goal is accomplished without a sacrifice. Before you set arbitrary goals this New Year, seriously consider what pursuing this goal will cost you. The cost could be time, money, friends and family, or even a change in lifestyle. Whatever it is, take the time to examine the cost before you commit.

Work within smaller time-frames. If you divide the year into quarters, you can potentially achieve one goal per quarter. Pick one goal you would like to accomplish within the next three months; this way you can see the results sooner. If you truly plan to achieve your goal, you must understand that it takes 21-30 consecutive days to change a habit and/or start a new one, so be patient.

Record your progress. Keep a journal of the progress you are making, as well as the difficulties you encounter and how you deal with each situation. You need not write daily, but a few times per week would suffice.

Get a support partner(s). Ambitious people tend to be very self reliant, but that is a major hindrance. You will achieve success faster if you have a team of trusted people who are smarter than you and want to see you excel. Yes, they are all around you, but you may not be able to see them as you spend all your time focusing on the unreliable, jealous people who distract you with their talk and actions. Time to move past them! Start a mastermind group, a success group or ask a friend/co-worker to encourage and celebrate with you on your road to victory.

However you decide to approach this year, let it be a year where you finish what you start.

Karen Hinds is “The Workplace Success Expert.” For a FREE SPECIAL REPORT on Avoiding Career Killers in the Workplace, send an email to info@workplacesuccess.com

Visit online at www.workplacesuccess.com