Now that we have “welcomed the new year, full of things that have never been,” as inspired by Rainer Marie Rilke, let’s expand our vision of the potential offered by a new year. Typically we think of setting goals and making resolutions. Here’s a different approach you might enjoy.

Food for Thought ~

How about an annual Dedication? Of course, the essential first step is reflection and self-awareness, identifying something that’s very important to you. What one thing is particularly meaningful to you at this time? It will most often be something intangible, such as a quality, attribute, mindset, or attitude. It will likely be something that inspires you to be your best self, something that “pulls” you toward it like a magnet. Once you have identified the one thing that calls to you most strongly right now, then make a conscious declaration and dedicate yourself to it for the coming year. Some examples include: listening, kindness, creativity, honesty, empathy, simplicity, etc. Here are some additional examples in the organizational leadership context: delegation, clarity, team building, communication, excellence, etc. The possibilities are abundant! I like this approach because it generally benefits others as well as ourselves. An annual Dedication is a deceptively simple, yet powerful honing device that helps us focus on what matters most.

Question for the day ~

What do you choose to dedicate yourself to this year?

In Closing ~

If you are so inclined and wish to send me your Dedications for 2013, I will compile a list for my next blog or newsletter – anonymous, of course! I think it might be very inspiring for all of us to share (I repeat, anonymously) our dedications.

Mary