Re-Solving

We will open the book.  Its pages are blank.  We are going to put words on them ourselves.  The book is called "Opportunity" and its first chapter is New Year's Day. ~ Edith Lovejoy Pierce

And now let us welcome the new year, full of things that have never been. ~ Rainer Maria Rilke

Happy 2011! 

In looking for a fresh approach to entering this year, a traditional time for reviewing and planning, I've been thinking about a linguistic twist on the concept of New Year resolutions — as "re-solutions".  What if, instead of "re-solving" – fixing or solving something over and over – we could frame and pursue our annual goals in such a way so that this was it — that they'd never have be 're-solved' again?

 
One way is to articulate your goals and aspirations in the present tense, like they are already occurring: "I move my body 30 minutes a day."  Be specific and measurable: if the martian from outer space came down and observed you, how would they know you were accomplishing your goals?

No longer "re-solving" means commitment not just on the grand scale but in the day-in and day-out; not just what you do in January, but what you will still be doing in May, July and October.  How will you hold yourself accountable – on a daily, monthly, quarterly, as well as yearly basis?  Having a method of checking in with your daily intentions as well as your larger longer-terms goals can help you see progress.

Opportunity.  Things that have never been.   What are you writing on the fresh pages of this new year?