A Different New Year's Resolution

Now that the new year is here, it is time to be thinking about all of the "resolutions" that you are going to make. For many people, the top resolution is to do something about their job: get that promotion, work on a special project, ask for a raise, achieve 'balance', or maybe quit and do something completely different.

Yet despite our best intentions, we rarely follow through. And after years of doing this, we start to lose confidence in our ability to do anything.

This year, try this approach:

1. Choose one thing about your job that you want to change or improve.
2. Write down two specific action items that can make this happen. These should be small enough that they are actually attainable. For example, signing up for a specific course, asking your manager to work on a specific project, or deciding to read a trade magazine each month. Then tell your friends, family, and co-workers about your commitment.
3. Do the first action item within the next week, and the other within the month. To help, calendarize them, and ask a friend or co-worker to "remind" you about it every few weeks.

What is different about this New Year's resolution? Perhaps you will keep it. And when you do keep it, you will have evidence that you do, indeed, have the self-control to achieve your goals.

Make It Happen Tipsheet
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Copyright © 2007 Knowledge to Action Press and Randall Craig. All rights reserved.

Publication Date: January 2, 2007