Milestones, whether birthdays or the start of a new year, provide the perfect opportunity to look at our lives a little more closely, take stock of how we are doing, and think about what we want in our lives now. I remember thinking, "I have been here for 40 years, and if I'm lucky, I may get 40 more... Do I want them to be like the first 40 or do I want something different?" In my case, the resounding response was that I wanted something different...

Jason Pugliese says "Real transformation must be rooted in the beingness of life, the essence at the very core of who we are. Living this essence creates joy and fulfillment, the key ingredients needed to transform individuals and societies, thereby birthing a new, changed world. In 2009 may we individually and collectively awaken this change so that together we can create peace on - and with -- the earth. May you be blessed in 2009 and always!"

Looking for the inspiration to carry you forward on the path of personal transformation? Coach Sharon Snow offer this quote from Oprah: "I've come to believe that each of us has a personal calling that's as unique as a fingerprint - and that the best way to succeed is to discover what you love and then find a way to offer it to others in the form of service, working hard, and also allowing the energy of the universe to lead you."

And Coach Marty Garrett offers an invitation for your consideration: "I invite  you to dream about your longings and what you want to create in your life. Dream big and let your imagination wander. These dreams are the core of transformation. Napolean Hill writes: " First comes thought; then organization of that thought, into ideas and plans; then transformation of those plans into reality. The beginning, as you will observe, is in your imagination."

From our archives, listen to Laura Lind-Blum and Lisa Buell on Making and Breaking New Year's Resolutions, in this December 31, 2007 Vermont Edition program on VPR. And Lisa shares her wisdom again in a New Year's Resolutions article in the Stowe Reporter.

Transformation means change. One thing we know about change is that, on the relative level, everything changes. More often than not, people complain about change - even changes in the weather. So it is kind of ironic that change is the one thing we can count on to remain constant!

This brings up the point that, because change is inevitable, we need to make friends with it.

So what have you done lately to make friends with change?

Coach Kim DuBrul offers Year of Transformation programs! Starting the week of January 5th 2009. Are you finally ready to live up to your potential? To create the life you have always known is possible? To break through the barriers that have been holding you back from living your best life? Kim uses cutting edge methodologies such as Power Coaching with Mind Kinetics and Mindscan profiles to assist her clients in creating solutions and getting results that amaze them! Consider a one-to-one program for $595 per month, or explore a Year of Transformation group for $295 per month. You'll find more details at the "Year of Transformation" website.

Liz Dallas announces a coaching program for Mid-Level Managers. Are you looking for more opportunity in your current management role? Want more influence in the final decisions in your organization? Looking toward executive responsibilities?Join a small group of your peers from other organizations in making a 6 month commitment to a coaching group for middle managers looking to advance their careers. Fee: $400 per month.
This program starts in January, 2009.

Rachel Stampul invites you to join a Next Generation Coaching Group and identify your most valuable resources -- your skills and natural networks. Discover your ideal career. Uncover the best method for you to land your dream job. Live into your vision for the future. A group coaching package is six weeks of hour-long sessions for $250. Contact Rachel by email or phone: (802)881-3768 to get started.

Are you a parent wanting to cultivate a great relationship with your kids while preparing them with a confident approach to life's challenges? Peg Lucci invites you to Parenting with a Purpose: Preparing our children to meet the challenges of today's world, offered in partnership with the Rutland Intermediate School. For more information, email Peg or call her at 802-265-4575.