There's Still Time...

We are rounding the corner into the final four months of the year.  I’ve found that September is often busier than January, as people come off vacation and have renewed energy to complete the goals and projects they set for the year. It is also budget time for many, and a good opportunity to think about future priorities, so you can set aside or plan for the needed resources.

How are you feeling about your progress this year?  What have you accomplished and what is yet to be achieved? There’s still time to make a big difference.  Take these simple steps to end your year with intention and a sense of accomplishment.

1. Set a vision for how you want to end the year and start the next. What does it look like? What are your priorities between now and year end? Finishing the year strong is the best way to start a new one with momentum and clarity of purpose. Take time to get clear on what is possible over the next four months, considering there are holidays to enjoy and celebrate. Be realistic but challenge yourself.
2. Enlist others to share your vision and align with your goals and objectives. You don’t have to go it alone.  Who on your team can do what by when to support you and your goals? Remember there are options for virtual team members and outsourcing of some of the tasks you want to complete.  If you need help with effective delegating, be sure to download 7 Steps to Getting Your People to Execute – when you want how you want.  
3. Create a plan to map out what you will accomplish each month, then each week. When you break down your goals into more manageable steps, they seem less overwhelming. Be sure to schedule time on your calendar to work on the tasks that you identify. And set up a schedule to follow up and follow through with any team members to whom you’ve delegated tasks.
4. Review your plan each day to determine next steps on each of your goals. Keeping your priorities in front of you and assessing your progress on a regular basis will help your unconscious mind go to work on achieving those goals. When you get off track, don’t waste time beating yourself up, just recommit to the next step. Always be aware of the next step, so you can easily pick up where you left off.
5. Celebrate progress. Each week, evaluate what worked and what didn’t, then make necessary adjustments for the following week. Keep focused on the plan and consciously put distractions aside for later. Be sure to recognize your achievements and those of your team.

It is amazing how much you can accomplish when you have a specific plan and map it out in small chunks. It’s important to schedule time on your calendar to focus on the tasks you’ve identified. This time should be treated as any other important appointment and protected from interruptions and distractions.

There is still time to make a difference. Being deliberate and intentional will support your success. If you need help in creating or executing your plan, or you want to set some priorities for next year, I can help.  Let’s talk.