The “fresh start” perspective of the new year is like a blank slate. Aside from the ubiquitous resolutions, it gives you a chance to refine or modify more subtle things that may need refreshed or enhanced.

What comes to mind?

Can you be more timely in responding to clients or co-workers? How can your team support you in ways where they can do what they do best and take the burden off of you? What initiatives have been dragging around in your calendar going nowhere in particular? You can either delegate or delete but stop moving it around your calendar.

These examples probably triggered something that you can improve on right away, and by making some small, discrete changes, you can make a visible, positive difference.

If your area for change is something habitual, be mindful that you’ll probably need some extra discipline to make sure that the habit is indeed changed; otherwise, you’ll be pulled back into your old ways.

Pick something that will be relatively easy to modify. When you do this, it won’t wreak havoc on your willpower (especially if you’re committing to some serious resolutions as well). A small change that makes a statement can be more meaningful than making a big splash with something that takes a huge effort.

And, make sure that your choice will not only help you improve, but will make a positive difference to the recipient of your action. This makes it a win-win for everyone.

Remember that “little hinges swing big doors”. What will you choose that will have this kind of impact?

“Cheers to a new year and another chance to get it right.”
– Oprah Winfrey

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