The idea of using this time to establish goals and resolutions for ourselves has evolved into a cultural and financial phenomenon.  Fitness Clubs, Smoking Cessation Product Manufacturers, and Weight Loss Organizations all show record sales figures in January as the energy put into 'self improvement' resolutions is at its peak for the year.   

 
As most of us know all too well........by February the fitness clubs are back to normal usage levels, cigarette consumption is back up, and older inefficient life habits are showing up again.  And, what's worse, we've figured out a way to rationalize away our original desire to achieve our stated resolutions.
 
It's easy to chalk this up to human nature and make self-effacing jokes that allow us to refrain from doing the challenging self-work that will allow us to make truly lasting changes.
 
This week, I'd like you to look at just one resolution you made and answer the following 5 questions that might open up some insight to help you get to the root of the change that's needed in order to accomplish your goals.  

Try it with one....then, go on to every resolution you've made.
 
Question #1:   How will the attainment of this goal (resolution) enhance your career and/or your life?  Be as specific as possible using all five senses in your description of your life upon attainment of this goal.


Question #2:   In what ways will the key relationships in your life (family, boss, friends) be impacted by your attainment of this goal (resolution)?  Think about whether any relationships will change, grow, or end....and, if the attainment opens up the possibility of new relationships entering your life.


Question #3:  Be as honest with yourself as you can, here......what is preventing you from having the life and relationships you described in questions 1 & 2 RIGHT NOW?  What impact does your stated goal (resolution) have on the roadblocks that are in your way?


Question #4:  Thinking about your goal (resolution), what is the pain associated with taking the kinds of actions necessary to reach your goal?   What changes do you need to make in order to hit your goal?
 
Question #5: Still thinking about your goal (resolution), what is the pain associated with not taking any action toward your goal and keeping things status quo?  What is it that led you to make this resolution in the first place?
 
Now, look back on your answers to Questions #1 & #2........study them, think about them, and combine them into a single statement or thought.    Write it down.  Read it over.  Read it over again. 
 
That statement, my friend, is your resolution.  

 Your original resolution is simply one of the ways you've identified to achieve it.   Now decide for yourself the level of energy you will place on that activity on your quest to achieve your newly 'uncovered' 2010 resolution.