Forget resolutions, let’s do something real. Let’s reflect on 2016 and then pick one objective in 2017 that you really care about. Ask yourself: In 2017, what is the one thing you control that will make a difference in your life or the people in your life?
By focusing on something that will make a difference in your life, something you are passionate about, you are more likely to see it through to completion. It may be something for your family, for your work, or for a cause. Choose something you truly care about and are willing to make sacrifices for, and you will have the fortitude and mental strength to drive through obstacles that get in your way.
Picking one thing focuses your energy and keeps you from feeling overwhelmed or stretched. We all have a lot we want to accomplish, so narrowing it down to one thing can be difficult. But by focusing on delivering that one thing, you will deliver it faster. Once you finish that one thing, move to the next one. I love the quote from Josh Billings “Be like a postage stamp. Stick to one thing until you get there.”
Now that you have picked your one thing, next list out all the factors affecting that thing and split them into three categories. Things you control, things you can influence, and things out of your control. Pick one thing in the list you control, identify small tasks that are concrete steps in the right direction and do one. Focusing on what you control and taking one tiny step moves you forward and feels empowering. It’s a powerful tool to get unstuck anytime you feel overwhelmed. Over time, as you gain momentum and confidence, move into the things you influence. Be aware of the things out of your control and adjust for them, but do not put energy into trying to change them.
For me, my one objective to make a difference in 2017 is sharing my story. There are many things I can do to share that story. I made a list of things in my control, in my influence, and out of my control, and the one thing in my control I will focus on first is sharing my website, stevehlawton.com that just launched. After making a list of all the things I can do to share it, the one I chose to do right now is to write a blog. This is my one task on my one thing on my one objective for the year, and the first thing is done. On to the next.
Enough about how I operationalized this, let’s get back to what’s important here…you. 2017 will be what you make it.
In 2017, what is the one thing you control that will make a difference in your life or the people in your life?
