Creating Positive Change

by Laurie Cameron

It's that time again ...have you made your New Year's Resolutions? Or are you like many well-intentioned people who have decided it's a losing battle and not worth the aggravation?

New Year's Resolutions are always filled with good intentions and hope for a better life this year than we had last year. But what happens when February rolls around and our good intentions have become a source of frustration and self-recrimination? There are many reasons why resolutions don't stick. See if any of these feel familiar:

• Too big or too unrealistic; they create a sense of "Overwhelm-Induced Inertia."
• Floating Resolutions; they're not attached to your vision.
• Externally motivated; they're what someone else thinks you should do or want.
• There's no detailed plan or strategy to reach them, they're all talk and no action; or your plan is too broad and not specific enough. Lack of motivation or follow-through.
• Too rigid or absolute.

If you want to create positive change in your life, here are some strategies to help you increase your chances for success:

1. Choose a resolution that feels manageable, yet still challenges you.
2. Be sure your resolution or goal is clearly attached to your vision; achieving it will take you toward your vision rather than away from it.
3. Be clear that your resolution is something YOU want.
4. Have a plan that not only defines the major steps over time, but also the small, individual action steps you can take on a daily basis.
5. Create some system of accountability; enlist the help of a Buddy who is as motivated as you are.
6. As you work your plan, allow the process to evolve and be refined.

Step up and resolve to make it a powerful and fulfilling 2008!

Laurie Cameron is a Coach, Speaker, and Catalyst. She is a CTA Mentor Coach for the Certified Coach Program and author of the Sage and Scholar's Guide to Coaching Singles.