There’s plenty of great content available that talks about actions you should take at the end of the year. The ideas tend to be very similar, but personally, I always re-read the content, as it puts me in a forward-focused mindset and reminds me why these tips have survived the test of time.
Here are a few of my personal goals for 2019.
1. KEEP READING THE ‘GREATEST OF ALL TIME’ LISTS
The problem is there are so many “greatest” lists out there. When I’m done with a book, I scan a number of “greatest” lists and purchase what interests me the most depending on my mood at the time — oftentimes fiction, history, or business. I like to change it up and keep things fresh. I’ve read around 50 books from these lists over the past three years, and it has been both inspiring and motivational.
2. CONTINUE TO JOURNAL
As I mentioned in our fall newsletter, journaling continues to be a great outlet for my ideas, creative thoughts, and future actions. It’s also extremely therapeutic. I’m reading “Walden” by Henry David Thoreau right now, which is mostly Thoreau’s personal journal edited over a two year period while living spartan-like in a cabin by Walden pond in Concord, Mass. It reminds me just how powerful journaling can be, and it has become one of the most popular reads of all time.
3. LAUGH AND SMILE, CONNECT AND FEEL, BE GRATEFUL
My goal is to do these three things every day. Honestly, I don’t know whom to give credit to for this succinct daily summary on how to create a rich life. I’ve read a lot of research and written on these topics individually, but in practice, actively setting out to do these three things every day has been not only enjoyable but also a true difference maker.
4. DELEGATE BETTER
I don’t want to delegate more work, but rather, to delegate more effectively. I tend to move too quickly when delegating, so I want to consciously slow down and ensure I’m delegating correctly. Maybe the upfront transfer will take longer, but the goal is to create greater ownership and ultimately
joint success for the individual who will be taking on the new task.
5. OBJECTIVES AND KEY RESULTS
See our book review on “Measure What Matters” from earlier this year. I’ll continue to use this method and ensure it is adopted across our company. By self-setting goals and measuring against them quarterly, things will get done. I don’t see this game plan ever going out of style in business or personal goal setting.
6. RE-CONNECT AND STAY CONNECTED WITH FRIENDS
Boy, does life just happen if you let it! I’ve spoken to quite a few people about this topic this year. Some are excellent at rallying friends for fun events, dates, or just making something happen over a weekend. I’m not naturally great at this. However, I’m committed to becoming much more active at planning events in advance. I really will put in the work — because it does take work (and sometimes a lot of it) — to make more things happen and reconnect with past colleagues, friends, and family. Maybe some of you are reading this right now — expect a call from me!
I hope by sharing some of my 2019 personal goals you get inspired to create and share your own list. Have a very grateful holiday season, and I wish you the best success in 2019.
Read more in our December 2018 newsletter.