Deborah OConnor January 2, 2013

How do you effectively say goodbye to one year and hello to another? How do you leave behind the mistakes and not-so-good experiences and vow tomake the New Year better, productive, and worthwhile? Why is it so hardto keep resolutions? Here are some suggestions to get you on your way.

Make a list of all the great things you accomplished in 2013. Did you get agreat new job? A promotion? Did you make a positive difference insomeone’s life? Make a list of the things you did not accomplish thispast year but wish you had. Take a look at what you have left. Are these still important goals? If they are so important why didn’t youaccomplish them? If they are not that important anymore, take them offthe list. You need a structured plan to be remotely successful. Here are some guidelines to help you.

• Don’t pick unrealistic andvague goals. For example, you may say I want to lose weight, themost-made resolution. This is way too vague. A better way is to have aplan. I want to lose 15-20 pounds by summer and I am going to adopt afood plan. I will get a personal trainer two times a week, and I amgoing to run three times a week. This is specific, this isgoal-oriented, and this could really work.
• I want to get a raise at work. Very vague, and without a plan it may not work.  A better wayis to set the goal of receiving a raise this coming year. I will have aplan and part of it is dressing better and looking and acting moreprofessional. I will improve my table manners and manners in general, Iwill study to learn anything new that is necessary, and I will find outthe qualifications I need and work toward them. Of course, hiringSuccessful Image to help you accomplish this is a great idea!)
• I want to stay in closer touch with my family. Most of us say that, butit usually goes by the wayside. Here is a plan: Make a list of those you want to stay in touch with. Put down their birthdays, anniversaries,and any pertinent information you may need. Then put the days you wantto contact them by mail, email, or phone on your calendar. When it comes up on your daily calendar, i.e., mail birthday card, call to wish Happy Anniversary, etc, there is a higher probability that you will do it.This gives you a much better chance of following through.
• Iwant to manage my finances more successfully. Easily said, rarely done.Learn the principals of positive cash flow and savings. Sit down byyourself or with your significant other and develop a plan making sureyou do not spend more than you make. Then set up a savings plan. Even if it is only $50 a month, it starts you out in the right direction. Onceyou get used to saving, you will get excited abut adding more savingsinstead of that extra Starbucks.

By adopting the “make aplan” strategy, you have a greater chance of success in any area. Goodluck and Happy New Year to one and all!

Please feel free to send questions to Deborah at: www.successfulimage.biz.
She will answer them in her weekly column.


Deborah O’Connor is a social strategist and founder and president of Successful Image LLC with offices in Columbia and Atlanta. She offers training and seminars on image management, workplace etiquette, and social skillsnecessary to succeed in life professionally and personally. Contactat:  [email protected]        www.successfulimage.biz