One Thing I’ve Done to Stay Focused in 2017

American author Bill Vaughan once wrote, “An optimist stays up until midnight to see the new year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves.”

I’m sure there are plenty of you who stayed up on New Year’s Eve in celebration of bringing in a New Year, hanging on the hope and opportunity that comes with the fresh start of the new year. If 2016 was not a particularly good year for you, you may have been among those who needed to raise a glass in celebration that 2016 is history. Regardless, we are in a new year, and hope and opportunity exists for us all.

Every year brings challenges and I’m certain 2017 will be no different. But as you get started, it is my sincere hope that you draw a difference between real challenges and the insignificant nothings that occupy your time. Save your energy for real challenges, and rise above the little things. Not only will you have more energy to effectively deal with your challenges, you will have more time to cease the opportunities 2017 will no doubt present.

I’ve done my planning for the New Year. I’ve taken the time to write down my vision for 2017. To ensure I stay focused on the vision, I did one additional thing, and I encourage you to do the same. Here ‘s what it is:

Identify one word that will describe what you plan to run toward in 2017

We all need a theme to keep us pointed in the right direction. Research shows us that most people will drop their New Year’s Resolutions before January is over. In most cases you’ll find that resolutions are the “what” while your one word is the “why.” Your single word should summarize your objectives and provide the reminder (and motivation) to return to your resolutions. It’s not a new concept, but it’s one that can have a powerful impact on your results this year.

2017 has the potential to be your best year ever. It’s a choice you get to make … either the choices that will get you where you want to go, or the choices you make in dealing with the challenges that come your way. I choose to make 2017 the best year ever. How about you?

Clint Swindall

? 2017 Clint Swindall — Clint is the president & CEO of Verbalocity, Inc., a personal development company with a focus on leadership enhancement. For information about how he can enhance employee engagement in your organization, please visit www.verbalocity.com, or contact him directly [email protected].