How do you make the most out of the year ahead? While there might be no single, plain, and simple answer to so deep and wide a question, there are certain things that you can do in order to make the most out of the new year.
So, here are some simple, yet effective things that you can keep in mind to make 2014 a productive and fulfilling year for you.
• Be proud of your past achievements– No matter how big or small your achievements seem to be, feel proud of what you have achieved. Success creates more success. If you are proud of what you have achieved, carry that feeling with you. Take action while carrying those feelings. Thoughts of what you have missed out on may not always be very empowering. Your past achievements not only reflect your capabilities, they also give you an idea of how much more you can achieve in the future. Feel like a winner, act like a winner, and be a winner!
• Keep reminders of your achievements - I have my public speaking competition trophies at my desk (next to my computer). I often look at them while I am working away. They remind me of my achievements, and of how far I have come (given that I was contemplating quitting public speaking due to my speech impediment). They tell me that I have got a talent that I can use to live my purpose with passion. Before I address an audience (be it in the hundreds, or in the thousands), I remind myself of my achievements as a competitive speaker and a professional speaker. I suggest that you do something similar. Keep things around you that will remind you of your achievements.
• Stop comparing, and start inspiring – Instead of comparing yourself with others who have achieved more than you have, use them as an inspiration to achieve the level of success that they are enjoying. If you start comparing yourself with people who have achieved more than you have, there is a chance that you may feel deflated. Instead of doing that, look at them, and feel inspired. Come to the realisation that you too can achieve what you want.
• Ask “Where am I now, compared to where I was?” - If you feel and believe that you have made progress, and have come a long way from where you were (at a point in time), then celebrate that fact! While celebrating, avoid being complacent. Remind yourself that there will always be work to be done. If, on the other hand, you feel that you have been going backwards or are not making progress, then remind yourself that the time to take productive action is now! Plan, prepare, work, and keep working.
• Ask “Where am I now, compared to where I would like to be?” –Take an inventory of how far you have come on the road to getting what you want. If you feel that you are progressing well, just keep going. If you feel that you should’ve been farther down the road leading to your goal, then take more action. Focus is the key! Keep your focus on taking action, and on progressing. At times, the road ahead will be bumpy, rough, and steep. That is when your focus will get you through.
• Progress is more important than being perfect at what you do – Focus on progress. Sometimes we strive for perfection. We want to become perfect at what we do. While that is a good mentality to have, progress is more important. The more progress you make, the closer you will get to your perception of perfection. Please remember, progress creates perfection! It is not the other way around.
• Make a positive difference this year -What will you do for society, mankind, the planet, and for other living beings, that will make you proud of your contribution towards them? It is very easy to get caught up in our daily routines. We must remind ourselves to share what we have. I am not just talking about money, I am talking about sharing our skills, talents, abilities, and time. The chairman of B1G1, Paul Dunn (a friend and father figure of mine) has taught me a great deal about the power of giving. Not only will you make a positive impact on whoever or whatever you are giving to, you will also leave behind a trail of inspiration for others to do the same. In all my volunteer work for the charities that I support, I have noticed this, time and time again. Reach out and make a positive impact this year. This is your time!
It is a new year, make it a new you!
Quote: “Satisfaction lies in the effort, not in the attainment. Full effort is full victory.” Mahatma Gandhi
I hope that 2014 brings you fulfilment and bliss. And, please remember to bring your best to 2014.
Inspiring you towards your excellence,
Ron Prasad
PS: To order my book, please go to www.WelcomeToYourLifeBook.com. For $19.95, you get the book, thousands of dollars in bonus gifts from some of the best personal development experts in the world (such as Bob Proctor, Marci Shimoff, Dr Joe Rubino), and you get to give back to the community by supporting my charity! I appreciate your support.
Ronny Prasad is the author of WELCOME TO YOUR LIFE - simple insights for your inspiration & empowerment (www.WelcomeToYourLifeBook.com). He is also an inspired speaker who empowers his audience with his enthusiasm and energy. His passion is inspiring and fulfilling lives, and sharing his insights with people around the world. He actively supports animal charities in many countries.