Happy New Year’s Eve 2016, ya’ll.
Recently, you’ve perhaps been taking some time to reflect on the year, on your life. Here’s to that! How else can we grow without assessing where we are, and who we are?
I encourage you to make personal reflection a regular practice. It could be formal (journaling on Saturday mornings) or informal (talking to your partner about your day).
However you do it, be sure it centers on yourself, on what you can control. It’s very easy to view your circumstances and find what externals could be better:
– “I wish my ensemble had better players….”
– “I wish my boss would work harder….”
– “If only people would take my point of view into consideration….”
– “If only I had more time….”
When instead you turn inwards, make consistent micro changes (say 1% a day), you can see the results. You can be at ease, because you are prioritizing personal integrity.
– Do you know your scores COLD? Can you inspire your players to elevate their performance?
– Are you demonstrating noticeable progress to your boss? Can you inspire your boss?
– Are you articulating your ideas with maximum clarity and conviction? Are you seeking to understand others’ views?
– Can you be more efficient with your time? Have you defined your priorities?
As you reflect, be sure to practice self-acceptance of your fallibility. Never take mistakes personally, just seriously.
That’s the path towards personal empowerment.
With much appreciation to you for reading,
Joel
