Among our Dau Consulting group, it is my turn to share strategies and consulting tips, but let’s be honest, it is time for those New Year’s resolutions!  Some of us make them with great intention and conviction, and some of us know there is no way we are going to keep them past January 2nd!

So how can we make the change we really want to become?

There are four ways to consider making changes in our lives:

1)    GIVE UP – If you absolutely refuse to even participate in change, you “give up” your power to engage in your life’s events, and the only choice is to respond to whatever happens; “If I don’t play, then I don’t lose.” That sounds like a safe place to land, but does it make sense? Change is the constant, yes?

2)     HAVE TO – You can determine that any change is a “have to,” and the consequences will perhaps be negative if you don’t make any effort to move forward. This may get you going, but sustaining any lasting positive change may be more difficult because you feel forced.          

3)     NEED TO – Needing a change places your aims in a more powerful place because you can make a choice, but again, it can be difficult and not sustainable. That little voice inside your head will be there nagging you to keep going or chastising you if you don’t. Not fun either way.

4)     WANT TO – Choosing with power to do whatever you really WANT to do will be more likely to ensure success. A conscious choice to honor yourself, your values, and your true convictions will allow you to keep any and all resolutions made.  Because despite the urge to not make that list, we all know that the list is made.

Be the change you want to make. For example, if losing weight and being fit are really part of who you are and your values, affirm “I am healthy and fit.” If being financially solvent is where you want to be, then make “I am fiscally responsible and in charge of my wealth” your mantra.  Think about what makes real sense for you and then write some goals around your statement. What does it take to be healthy and fit? How can you become fiscally responsible?

Remember the SMART goal process: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Reasonable, and Time-Based. Plan new daily menus for a month and stick to them. Plan to exercise twice a week and perhaps three times a week for a month. Do not plan to starve yourself immediately and train for a marathon if you have not done anything like this before! We all know this, but we go crazy in our effort to change and renew.

Choose change because you value yourself and the great impact you have on the world.  Develop goals and a plan that makes real sense in which you have the power for real, positive, and sustainable change.

What changes have you made for the new year?  What motivates you?

Happy New Year from all of us at Dau Consulting!