7 Easy Ways to Finish 2017 Strong

We are already into the third quarter of 2017 and thus far it's been a bumpy ride. Sometimes, it felt like every step forward I made, I was actually moving two steps backward. I’ve managed to clear a few hurdles whilst others blindsided me. In spite of the many ups and downs faced, I plan on finishing 2017 strong.

With 5 months left until the end of 2017 - Here are 7 Questions to make sure you are on track:

1. Have you accomplished what you set out to do this year?

2. If not, how close are you to accomplishing your goals?

3. Did you take risks or did you remain in your comfort zone?

4. Are you doing all you can to elevate your purpose?

5.  Are you proud of your accomplishments thus far?

6. Are you at the same place you were last year?

7. Are you living the life you've always imagined?

If not, you may need to conduct a gap analysis to assess where you are and where you need to be. Sometimes it may mean having to adjust your sails or just start over again. You may start off slow but you can still finish strong.

“Don't think about the start of the race, think about the ending.” ~Usain Bolt

Here are my 7 Easy Ways To Finish 2017 Strong :

1. Set Goals. It’s never too late to set new goals. Write them down. If you don’t set goals you will be drifting aimlessly to wherever the winds take you. You must form a plan. Eradicate time wasters. Think outside the box. If something isn't working don't be afraid to try something new. Take risks. Look for opportunities others may overlook. Break down large goals into small ones so you can see progress.

2. Focus on your Skills and Talents. Embrace your distinctiveness. Learn from others but don’t try to imitate them. You will be a poor replica. Find your gift. What is your core purpose? What it is you were given that no one else can do better? Allow your reason for being here to lead you to do the amazing things you were destined to do.

“If you can't fly, run. If you can't run, walk. If you can't walk, crawl, but by all means keep moving forward.” ~Martin Luther King Jr.

3. Run you own Race. Gauge the course and run at your own pace. Don’t look to the left or right to see how others are doing. Look straight ahead to the finish line. Focus on beating your personal best. Be the best version of you. It’s important not to compare yourself to anyone. Sometimes it may appear others are progressing faster than you. Don’t worry if others overlap you. There is a season and time for everything. Your time will come.

4. Be Positive. The longer the course is with no end in sight, the more it becomes a mind game. Don’t get side-tracked by people who are not on the track. Stop doubting yourself. Replace negative thoughts of inadequacy with positive affirmations. ‘I can and I will!” Try every option and keep trying again and again; where there is a will, there is always a way and you will find it. It may be rainy right now but just remember the sun is always shining above the clouds. Keep moving forward.

5. Form Alliances and Strategic Partnerships. If you can’t win in the individual undertakings, try joining a relay. Find a mentor or coach. It doesn’t matter how naturally talented you are, you may still need a coach to help you achieve your full potential. Surround yourself with the “movers and shakers” and leaders in your field. Run with the leading pack; those who will champion you and encourage you to keep running.

6. Work Hard - It all comes back to working hard. There are no shortcuts in life. These all lead to dead ends. Giving 99.9% is not sufficient. You must give 100%. It will take a huge commitment and you will have to make the necessary sacrifices. It all boils down to how bad do you really want it? Work Smart - A wise woodcutter indeed is one who rather than constantly chopping wood will occasionally stop to sharpen his axe.

“ Take pride in how far you've come. Have faith in how far you can go. But don't forget to enjoy the journey. ~Michael  Josephson

7. Enjoy the Journey – Enjoy the off seasons. Breathe! Life is not a 100 metre sprint but a long distance race. Prioritize; it’s important to take time to stop and smell the roses. Take breaks. Spend time with those closest to you. Show them how much you appreciate them. These are special moments that once you miss may not come around again. Additionally, don’t wait for huge victories, celebrate small successes and Help others along the way.

With 5 months left, you can make the necessary changes to accomplish your goals. Shake off rejection, failure and disappointments and give that final PUSH to the finish line. Don't live the year you lived last year, this year. Whatever your goal might be know, you have everything you need to make it happen. You’ve GOT this!

The prize is sure if you endure to the end. You may not begin well but you can surely end well.

"If you only walk on sunny days you'll never reach your destination." ~Paulo Coelho

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To Your continued Success!

Cheers! ??????????

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