Have you been naughty or nice this year?
A tough question to answer given the challenges we have had to face in this era of COVID-19, and political unrest.
The holidays are now in full swing, and the New Year is just around the corner. Are you prepared for success ahead? Far too many business owners are now left scrambling to put the pieces of the puzzle together in the hope that they will be off to a good start in 2024.
Does this sound familiar?
Well, here’s a news flash … if you have not figured out that ‘Holiday Wish List’ at this point for the upcoming year, then you are being naughty, and you’re way behind the curve!
No one wants to have a failed launch or be behind before the New Year even gets going, so I wanted to share some things you can do, starting today, to get your business and your life on the fast track to greater, sustainable future success. I have reduced my lengthy list of suggestions to a short list of the most important actions to take to help make 2024 your best year so far.
Since this is the holiday season, let’s refer to these suggestions appropriately as the ’12 Days of Christmas Success’ list. They are my gift to help you get off to a successful start in the New Year ahead, and set the table for sustained growth and future prosperity.
Day 1 — Have a Plan. A written plan that is. Had to add this caveat because far too many of us miss this important detail. A written plan is a performance contract.
Day 2 — Live Your Goals. Having a written plan and goals is a wonderful start, but if you don’t commit to them, and live them daily, you will never achieve them.
Day 3 — Focus on Today. Today is all we have. Focusing on yesterday or a future date is a waste of time. Devote 100% of your energy to making today your best day so far.
Day 4 — Manage Your Time. How are you using this precious resource? Time-block to ensure your daily ‘To Dos’ get done. This will help you accomplish more in less time.
Day 5 — Improve Your Health. In all the critical ‘Five F’ areas – Faith, Family, Finances, Fitness and Fun. Have specific milestones you want to reach as part of your goals.
Day 6 — Expand Your Network. Network and be visible. Whether you enjoy networking or not, it’s an absolute necessity for continued growth. So get out there!
Day 7 — Invest in Others. The people in our lives are our greatest blessing. Make time for them, nurture the relationships, and take them with you on your journey.
Day 8 — Enhance Your Skills. It is hard to grow others if you are not growing yourself. Commit to continuous learning and growth. Read, write, speak, attend classes, workshops, etc.
Day 9 — Find a Mentor. We all need a Coach or Mentor that offers wise counsel to enable us to achieve our goals, expand our horizons and keep us on track.
Day 10 — Take a Vacation. We also need ‘me time’ and family time to refocus, re-energize and get away from it all. Make this a priority in the coming year.
Day 11 — Do Good Deeds. Give of your time, talents and treasures in service to others. Volunteer and be charitable. Create a ripple by your example.
Day 12 — Enjoy the Journey! If you don’t find joy in what you’re doing, why do it? Life is far too short. Be grateful and embrace the blessings of each new day.
My ’12 Days of Christmas Success’ list may not cover the waterfront, but it’s a good start. The rest is all up to you. Make your list, check it twice, and commit to it! So you don’t end up on Santa’s naughty list this time next year.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Have a blessed and prosperous New Year ahead!!
John
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