The Year Ahead - 2013 forget Resolutions...

2012 is now behind us and the magical feeling of a fresh start is being felt by many around the world! People have been busy making their list of resolutions - yet again- determined "this year" will be different, they will stick we the resolutions and life will be magically transformed. In theory I think making resolutions is a great starting point, after all like many I have made my own lists over the years. We are full of hope and anticipation in the beginning, but year after year the same thing starts happen. After a few weeks, the newness and excitement of  a new year begins to fade and we become deflated and with this comes guilt and before we know it we are back to the "same old patterns".

What I have realized, resolutions are often a list of desired outcomes based on negative words/phrases, with no direction (thought) on how to achieve success. This year  MAKE A NEW YEAR's PLAN! by using positive words/phrases and actions you will be re-enforcing an action that will get you closer to the desired outcome.

A PLAN also includes action, by noting some points on how to execute your PLAN you will be reminded of the actions required to achieve your desire result.
I've created the above chart using 6 items commonly found on Resolution lists; I have replaced each desired outcome with a positive phrase ( i.e Get in Shape with Be more physically active) and noted actions to achieve desired results.

Partial 2013 PLAN ~ for me. No Resolutions = No stress.

Here is part of my plan for 2013 ~ I've added in the bubble the word/phrase which I would have normally used to create my resolution list as an example.
Old Resolution List:
Get in Shape = flabby out of shape
Loose Weight = fat
Use Brain = dumb
Stop Being a Hermit = anti-social
Stop Neglecting Me = careless/slob
Think of Others = Ungrateful/Selfish

Note how the old phrases in the circles translate in a negative visual. Whereas the Positive Phrases on the post-it notes translate into actions.

As you sit and think about how you would like 2013 to be, Make a Plan and you will be that much closer to achieving your goals. If you have already made a Resolution list, at the very least make sure the phrases are positive ... i.e. Loose Weight - change to > Eat Healthier.

What fabulous Plans are you making for 2013?