Reflection and goals for the new year

Like most people, you are probably getting ready to write down your New Year’s resolutions. At the end of the year, this is one of the most searched topics for improving oneself.

Before you start to write down your goals for the year ahead, take time to reflect on your growth over the past year.

Ask yourself:

• What was the most fun I had this year?
• What did I learn this year?
• What did I change for good this year?
• What mistakes had the most positive impact on me this year?
• What bad habits did I pick up this year?
• What books or readings had the biggest impact on me this year?

• What important projects would I like to complete this year?
• What am I looking forward to in my personal life this year?
• What skills would I like to sharpen this year?
• What education or books will help me the most this year?
• How can I increase my service to others this year?
• How much would I like to earn this year?

To achieve success in the year to come, make time for the powerful discipline of reflection. My formula:

• End of the day: 15 minutes
• End of the week: 30 minutes
• End of the month: 1 hour
• End of the quarter: 2 hours
• End of the year: 1 day

Remember, you will be the same person you were five years from now except for two things: the people you meet and the books you read. Choose both carefully!

By Travis Wold (EMBA ’15), co-founder/idea generation, Suit Squares