Self Improvement for 2005: First Things First

This is the perfect time to reflect on what you've accomplished in 2004 and to start planning for this New Year. The key to getting the most out of life in 2005 is to first have a clear picture of where you're at right now. For example, if you wanted to go on a trip across the country, you'd obviously take out a map, determine your point of departure and THEN chart the course to your destination. Life is no exception. Many people skip this step and jump right into "goal-setting" which can be a big mistake because we're not all starting at the same place.

When considering to set your goals for 2005 be sure to first take an inventory of and evaluate yourself in the following areas - physical, intellectual, occupational, spiritual, social and emotional. In my newly released video program and e-workbook, "Discovering What You Truly Want - the five keys", I developed an exercise that is designed to help you develop a clear picture of where you're at right now.

Here's a sneak peak at one of the exercises in the e-workbook to help you get started right away. Let's focus on two distinct areas of your life: your Intellectual Self and your Occupational Self. Each of the statements below represents a positive behaviour, so take a few moments to read them and see which areas could use more work in 2005.

Rate yourself against the statements using the following scale: 1 - not at all, 2 - rarely, 3 - occasionally, 4 - often, but not consistently, 5 - consistently incorporate this healthy attitude/behaviour in my life.

Intellectual Self

1. I take part in activities that contribute to my ongoing learning.
2. I look for outlets to stimulate my creativity.
3. I am flexible when it comes to making changes.
4. I consider alte
atives and outcomes before making a decision.
5. I apply myself to the best of my mental abilities.
6. I know how to access resources when I need to.

Occupational Self

1. I am pursuing the career of my choice.
2. I consider the balance between work and leisure.
3. I spend of portion of my time volunteering.
4. I am working toward academic goals.
5. I am developing the necessary skills to gain employment.
6. I have developed a financial plan.

Notice the statements with the lowest scores. You may want to focus on these areas when setting goals for 2005!

"Wherever you are is the entry point." - Kabir (Indian philosopher, 1398-1519)

COPYRIGHT (C) 2005 by Tom Abbott