After nine days off, two days of work, one day off and now, back to work for two days before another weekend, I don't know if I am coming or going! I decided to see what state of mind I was in as the holidays approached last year.

My daily happenings were not pretty so I'll skip over the details (you can read The Goals Post here) and offer you a reprise of four ways you can transform your new year into a year to remember.

Reflect. Where did you meet, exceed or fall short of your expectations? What impact will you have over the next 12 months? Who were you as a leader, colleague, family member or friend? What were you most proud of? Where will you pull back? Where will you stretch?
Focus. Take a tip from Chris Brogan and forgo the idea of a resolution. Instead, come up with 3 words that will help you define your goals and experiences for the coming year. As you move through the year, execute on the meaning of those three words each day.
Be Intentional. There is a difference between writing to produce new content and writing to change ideas. Whether you are writing, leading, recharging an exercise plan or starting a new business, define the "why" behind your choice. Take actions that support your intent and toss the rest.
Be Accountable. Not to bore you with platitudes but the means do not always justify the ends, your actions speak louder than your words, and you may fool some of the people some of the time but you won't fool them all. Really. Choose not to do business with those that are anything less than the real deal.

My 2013 ended much better than 2012 and I am working on my three words for 2014 now. Do you have a word or a set words that guide you?

By Lisa Rosendahl

A few years ago, I set out to select three words that would inspire and guide my coming year. When they came to me, I tucked them safely away for use "sometime when."

Each time the three words called out to me, I gently put them back. "Not yet."

When my inspiration wandered, I would chase it down by drawing upon the excitement and energy of others. It didn't always work and it was short-lived when it did. I heart my people, but what inspired them did not inspire me. What was wrong with me, I'd wonder. Why can't I get behind this? Then, I understood. That was not my story.

My story is the heart and wisdom of a leader. It's bringing the best of who you are to every situation whether it's leading a strategic human resource function, supervising a staff of volunteers or sitting down to write your first novel. When I stray to step into the story of another, I lose my flow. I lose my fulfillment and my energy. I am at my best when I stay true to my nature.

Last but not least, I need people, connection and ideas. And they need me. There is nothing more powerful than the strength of a tribe.

Story. Flow. Tribe. It's time.

Blog

{Looking Back} 2013 Goals Post

Story, Flow and Tribe: A Day in the Life Sunday

Lisa Rosendahl