Answer These 5 Questions … Before the Ball Drops!
This is the time of year when many of us pause to think about what we want for the year ahead. I'm one of those who always make a list of resolutions. If you are too, here's my long-ago article on making resolutions that are more likely to stick.
This year, I’d like to offer you something new as a way to powerfully welcome in a new year. It's the gift of self-inquiry. I’m sharing five questions that I recommend you ponder/answer to get clear about what you want to manifest in 2022. See if you can set aside time to think about – and write down – your answers to these five questions. You’ll be glad you did.
Enjoy the holidays, and here’s to a year ahead of creating all that you want in your life.
What is one essential thing that I want to happen in my professional (or personal) life that would make 2022 amazing?
You can never know what's in store for the year ahead. But for most of us, there is that one thing that would be super meaningful if it happened. What is looming in your year ahead that, if you could achieve it, would go a long way towards making for a great year? Being clear on a big goal like this can give you purpose, focus and a powerful way to attract the things you need to make your goal real. [Note: If there are more than one game-changing accomplishments or actions that would make your 2022, write them down as well.]
What would I like to let go of in 2022?
We all hold on to things that no longer serve us, mostly because we are unaware of the drag they exert. Perhaps you’re holding on to an outdated self-identity that helped you thrive at one point but is limiting you now. Maybe it’s a friendship that once worked but now leaves you feeling depleted. Or maybe it’s a well-honed way of reacting to things that you’d be happier replacing with a different response. See if you can come up with a “Let Go” list, and bring your awareness to it in the weeks and months ahead.
Who Fills My Cup?
Introvert or extrovert, we all need connection. The last two years have made easy connection a challenge, so now is a great time to think about who in your world you’d like to spend more quality time with in the year ahead. Consider your work colleagues, old friends, family members, and more peripheral people who might enrich your life if they were closer. As 2022 kicks off, make a concerted effort to bring your joyful relationships to greater prominence in your life.
What Brings Me Joy?
I may be borrowing a bit too freely from Marie Kondo here, but it is useful to write down the things that bring you joy so that you can consciously make them more of a focus in your year. For me, riding my bike around the periphery of Lower Manhattan is one of those small things that always lifts me, so I do it at least once a week. My morning ritual of meditation/coffee/NYT brings me joy and anchors my day. I never miss it. What should be on your “joy” list? Seriously, make a list and check it throughout the year to ensure you're inviting in the things that lift you.
What is my word or phrase for 2022?
One of my clients introduced me to this idea, which is to declare a word or phrase that will serve as an anchor for the year ahead. This question forces you to think about the intention and energy you want to bring into your days. Past words that have served me have been “Open,” “Connection” and “Patience.” My word for 2022 is … drumroll … “Expansion.” Have fun declaring yours. I suggest printing it and posting it somewhere prominent so you can summon it when needed.
Bonus Question: Who do you want to thank before the year ends?
Expressing thanks is such a simple way to make someone else – and yourself – feel great. It’s one of the best returns on investment (ROI) you can get for the effort required. One of my favorite learnings from the book Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals is the importance of sharing gratitude as soon as possible when you’re feeling it. Don’t let the moment of thanking someone get away from you. Make a list of people you’re grateful for. Then, before year end, send a text, an email, a letter, or a sweet gift, like a box of chocolates. Just make sure that you don’t miss out on this simple way of making your life and others’ that much better.