As we enter this new year and stumble through resolutions ranging from overly ambitious to half-hearted, it’s a good time to simplify. Don’t overly complicate your life by overly complicating your commitments.
Try this creative brainstorming exercise. Write down everything you can think of that you’d like to do, be, or have this year. Don’t edit – just let your mind open up and allow your thoughts to pour out.
After you do this, circle the 5 words or phrases that strike you as the most important. Then ask “why” – and keep digging with “why” until you find the word or phrase that resonates the most.
Does this word evoke a positive emotion? Does it excite you? Does it make you want to dive in and do great work? Can you visualize a sensational outcome?
If yes, then you’ve probably found “the one thing”. If no, go back and repeat the “why” exercise.
After you’ve identified the one thing, you have your compass for the year. This is the activity, project, or mission that will guide you.
As you plan your daily activities, keep the one thing in mind. Making an important decision? Think about how the various options will impact it.
Prioritizing your daily or weekly activities? Make sure that the one thing is front and center as you organize your schedule.
I’d love to hear your “one thing”, so please email me and let me know.
Have a great week!
