I think you would all agree that describing this year would be an interesting challenge as there have been so many high and low moments throughout 2020. There have been extremely joyous and happy moments and there have been extremely sad and low ones, too.  

This is a pivotal point in the year as we embark on closing the chapter to 2020 and embracing a new year ahead. Realizing that things are still uncertain can cause a great deal of anxiety and stress for many of us. We gently remind all participants that come through our programs and workshops to focus on what they can control, as that is far more empowering and a healthier way to live.

Focusing on what you can control means that you are conscious of your thinking and are choosing to behave in a way that you deem the most appropriate for you and for those around you. Leveraging your EQ and social sensitivity to the best of your ability will also lead to more productive outcomes.

The bottom line is this:  You have one shot a life, so why not live it in the most productive and positive way possible?  

As we have been shown this year, life is short and precious, so I am encouraging you to take some quiet time for yourself before the new year commences to really think about what you want for your life and how you will go about achieving it by being intentional and focused with your thinking and behavior. Write in a journal or workbook, or type your goals on your computer or iPad. When we write things down it makes them real and we are more likely to achieve what we desire.
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Here are some questions to help guide you through the process:

• What went well for you this year, professionally and personally (or both)?
• What did not go as well?
• What did you learn from the things that went well?
• What did you learn from the things that did not go so well?
• What will you do differently in 2021 to move you closer to achieving your goals & dreams?
  

If you do not have a vision for your life, then we suggest starting there first, so you are more focused and intentional in your efforts. You can create a vision board which is a fun and engaging process to work through if you prefer a visual. Or you can follow this simple process to get you started.

You can either record yourself narrating what the future looks like using your smartphone, or write it down using key descriptions on what you desire for the future. 

I find it most effective to focus on a 5-year timeline as it feels realistic and tangible, however you decide what works best for you. There is no right or wrong way to approach this exercise.

When we have a life vision, it gives us something to work towards. It gives us clarity, so we can go through our days knowing we are working towards what we want and what is truly important to us. This clarity of direction helps us be more intentional in making the right decisions and choices for ourselves.  

As an example, I have my vision detailed out by each facet of my life – career, personal life/family life, hobbies/passions, and personal interests. In each of these areas, I have a high-level description of what I want the future to look like for me.

A life vision should be inspirational and align with your values, so much so that you WANT to take action towards it. The purpose of a life vision exercise or plan is to create a desirable future that helps us to focus our lives and inspire us to act towards it.

Think outside the box and manifest a reality you want without allowing your limiting beliefs to take over. If you had a magic wand, what life would you create for yourself? What would life look like in the next year, 5 years or 10 years as an example?  

What Does This Have to Do with Leadership?

Everything. Leaders who are proactive, plan, set goals and are intentional about them are the ones who achieve the most success. 

You have a choice. You can let life happen to you, or you can try to influence it as much as possible by giving attention to the things you want for yourself. 

2021, Here We Come!

I have big plans for 2021, and I am excited to have you along for the ride! Leadership is changing and transforming, and I will continue to offer my perspective throughout the year so we can all stay informed and empowered.

I would love to hear your on this as we turn the corner into 2021. If you would like to contact me and continue the conversation, I encourage you to send an email to joanne.trotta@leadersedgeinc.ca or give me a call at 1.855.871.3374. I look forward to hearing from you!