“The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, but expecting a different result.” Albert Einstein.

This is the time of year when most people will ponder their accomplishments and setbacks for the previous year…for about 3 minutes. In reality, most people will spend more time planning what they will wear to a New Year’s Eve party than what they would ultimately like to have their life look like in the new year. Often times many people will “Just keep tryin'” at the same old grind, and will expect a different and better result. Keep in mind that this is NOT giving up and changing direction when you are driving toward a goal but you have not realized it yet.

Here are a few ideas to get you rolling:

1. Get just a little silly and pumped up. People make decisions based upon emotion, then back them up with fact. Why would you be any different? How much passion and excitement is in sitting down thinking, “Damn goals!” Not a whole lot. Play some of your favorite music, meditate on what it will look like when you are living the goals. Jack Canfield talks about holding a “Come as you will be” party where people dress and act like they are 5 years in the future, having accomplished their goals.

2. Embrace the growth process. One of my goals is to become very fit for the new year. I realize that the early mornings, sore muscles, and time invested will not always be fun. It will be part of the growth process.

3. Model others! Why would you want to reinvent the wheel? If you are wanting to accomplish something, chances are someone else has already done it. They have also probably overcome more serious obstacles than you have to get there. Study them, talk to them, or send them an email. I frequently get emails from aspiring speakers and authors who want to create successful speaking businesses. I ALWAYS give time to these people who are willing to reach out.

4. Be grateful. No matter where you are in life, someone else has it worse. The other dynamic is that it is neurologically impossible for depression and gratitude to live in the same plane. Take a moment to be grateful for what you have and those around you.

My hope is that you will not only read this article, but will act upon it. If you improve your world by stretching beyond what you previously thought possible; you would not only change your reality, but the reality of your kids and everyone around you!