Why self-assessment and goal-setting are more than just an annual tradition 
 

New year's resolutions are a long tradition and a noble cause.  They offer an excuse to take stock, restate a belief in personal growth and make an effort that might even seem impossible. But no matter how much you believe in the human capacity for change, putting this tradition into practice throughout the year creates a mindset that can make your life work.  Just a few ideas to ponder, now and later:

• Make this the year you invest in your career. Plan to set aside time and/or funding for a website update, new concert garb, a new demo or a couple of skills workshops.  Set aside a savings account, a change jar or anything that works.  Invest in at least one new project each year for a grand (and practical) new tradition.
   

• Pick a skill to work on throughout 2011. Imagine the progress you can make between now and next January on your sightreading, French diction or even your business writing.  The time will fly by, and weekly work will make a major difference. Just take it one step at a time, and keep it up.

• Find a niche and run with it.  Are you particularly gifted at performing recitals in living rooms?  Find three people to host you for house concerts, and schedule events featuring a short themed program with, for instance, a cookie tasting.  Do you "get" Donizetti?  Now's the time to learn that lesser-known role, just because.  Make sure 2011 includes at least one project you're really excited about.

• Re-evaluate your image: This could mean changing your hair, redesigning your business cards, or taking a careful look at the content on your Facebook page.  Even small changes in your professional presentation will change the way people see you.

• Take your health seriously: Pick one thing you need to change, and get the ball rolling.  Remember, you only need to keep it up for 90 days before it's likely to become a lifelong habit!


• Do a self-review at regular intervals. Buy yourself a cup of tea once a month (or as often as you need to) and think about your current and future goals.  This is not time for kicking yourself -- just see where you are, decide where you're going, and think about how you'll get there.  This habit alone will change you.
   

Change your mind, change your future.  Game on!

Elmer Fudd, Unplugged

Just for fun:  A live performance of the
1957 cartoon, "What's Opera, Doc?"  
 

If only we'd thought of it first...

(click the image above to play on YouTube)
 

Today's top stories: