2009 - New Year Resolution Tips

[David Tan]

New Year is coming and it's a strange thing that no matter how bad the year has been, psychologically, we tend to think that when 2009 is here, that naturally somehow as if by magic, the year will be better, that we'll start with a clean slate and somehow, 2nd chances are here while problems are far away.

Ofcourse, going into a new year is still like going to the next month. Problems are still around, challenges abound and worries about the future.

But ofcourse, we FEEL better with the start of a 'New' year. Capitalize on that. Use that extra motivation and excitement to start something and... actually start some things.

Here are some tips for coming up with New Year's Resolution.

1. Make Resolutions - Though some may feel that it's pointless. Since... it rarely comes true or that most of it will fail or that they're setting themselves up for disappointment. But wait! Don't look down on having something to look forward to for 2009. It's the difference between an elderly person sitting at home with nothing to do and an active elderly entrepreneur living life to the full. There's power and motivation in hopes and dreams.
   
2. Plan in Detail - Having resolutions gives life a focus for 2009. Time flies when you're having fun and goes on warp speed when you have no plans. Ever wake up and realize that you're at a midlife crisis or that you're 'no longer young'? That means you haven't been keeping track of your life plans... or didn't have any.
   
3. Let people know about it - At the very least, you'll be challenged to put your money where your mouth is. At the most, it means working with others to fulfill goals together, gathering support and having encouragement.
   
4. Count the cost, ANTICIPATE the challenges - Don't get too surprised when you reach a hump in meeting your resolutions. If you counted the cost early, you don't have to count the cost on the spot when the s*** hits the fan. In fact, you might even be able to prepare for it. It's like driving. You see the hump, you slow down but you still manage without fuss to keep on going on the road. You don't see it and you hit it hard.
   
5. Work hard - shortcuts (getting something good by doing little work) only work at what 1% - 5% of the time and that includes being exceptionally talented? Don't want to work hard? Would you like to fail 95% of the time when trying to achieve great success?
   
6. Persevere - to be good at anything you have to work at it until it becomes second nature, a habit. That's when it becomes much easier and you're given access to higher achievement possibilities.
   
7. Play hard.. with people you care - Really, if 2009 is all work and overcoming challenges, you'll either go into depression, isolate the people you love, get a heart attack or begin questioning yourself what the heck is all the hard work for? 2009 must be worth the hard work.