{Looking Back} 2013 Goals Post

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.

Photo credit iStock photo

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.

1. 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?
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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

My Competition: A Day in the Life Sunday

"There's nothing like a little healthy competition," someone says. Outwardly, everyone in hearing range casts a knowing grin and nods their head in agreement. Yet, how many of you stop in your tracks and want to run the other way at any hint of a competition?

I don't run away from competition but I am not the first to routinely throw my hat in the ring. I know myself well enough to know when I am playing it too safe and get the urge to shake things up a bit. There are times, however, when the ever-present voice echoing "CAN'T"  does get in my way.

When I let it.

That voice has been a life-long companion of mine and I've learned how to silence it. At the top of the list of ways is to surround myself with right people. I was commenting to the husband the other night that I have the perfect friends for me right now - fearless, strong, and accepting.

I've been doing CrossFit for almost nine months now. Have you tried working out with young(er) and/or very strong athletes and not feel a tinch of dismay at your own age and/or physical condition? How'd that go for you?

Welcome to my world. I have to remember to keep my "mirror" handy and appreciate  my gains each week.

This week, I actually had a big gain. I did a kipping pull up.  Mine is more of a muscle up than a smooth glide like the instructor in this video but I got my chin above the bar and set myself up for a second one. It's a combination of mind and muscle and it's been a long time coming.

And you know what? I like the view.

By: Lisa Rosendahl