We are almost at the end of another year. I don’t know about you but for me 2017 seems to have flown by.

Much has happened globally this year and the world seems to be a very interesting point in its evolution. There is lots of conflict (some between leaders of nations) and division. Here in the UK there is much uncertainty about what our impending exit from the European Union will mean in real terms.

We have seen awful terrorist atrocities and much suffering caused by freak weather in the form of hurricanes. There has been flooding and earthquakes. However, if you look closely enough there are also heart-warming stories of positivity, inspiration and human achievement. These include tales of kindness and people making a contribution to improve the lives of people in their corner of the world.

Life can be so busy, demanding and hectic at this time of year. As a result, it’s very easy to overlook taking some time to pause and reflect on the past year and review our progress and growth.

When we reach the year end, we have a great opportunity to celebrate our successes and achievements and count our blessings for good fortune, the people in our life and all that we have. Spending time in this area helps to provide some good positive energy that we can carry into the New Year. We can also reflect and plan for what we’d like to achieve and experience in 2018.

Prior to the start of 2018 I recommend that you spend some quiet time to think about what has been great about 2017, the lessons you have learned, what any challenges have taught you and the things to be grateful for.

In order to be fully prepared for next year, I suggest that you take a notebook, set aside a few hours to work through a series of questions and make a note of your responses. You can complete the exercise in one session or divide the process into bite sized chunks over a week. You can choose the method which fits best with your preferences, schedule and other priorities.

I recommend that you review your progress throughout the forthcoming year (normally at the end of each quarter) and update your notebook. Here are some possible questions for you to use as part of your personal review:

Review of 2017:

  • What has been great about this year and what are my top 5 highlights?
  • What were the smartest decisions that I made?
  • How have I grown and developed?
  • What gave me the greatest happiness?
  • What do I want to celebrate about this year?
  • What lessons have I learned?
  • What have any challenges taught me?
  • What do I need to let go of from the past year?
  • What/who am I grateful for in my life?

Planning for a successful 2018:

  • How would I like 2018 to be different?
  • What would I like to celebrate at the end of next year?
  • What are my main personal and professional goals in the forthcoming year?
  • What are my financial goals for the forthcoming year?
  • What steps do I need to take to improve/maintain my health and fitness?
  • What can I do to improve my relationships?
  • What would I like to add, change or eliminate from my daily routine?
  • What plans do I have to grow, develop and learn?
  • What steps can I take to increase my happiness?
  • How can I increase the amount of fun that I have?

I hope that 2018 is a First Class year for you and is full of good health, happiness and abundance. Enjoy reflecting on the past year and planning for a successful new one.

Enjoy the Festive celebrations!

This week’s quotation:

“Some people dream of success, while other people get up every morning and make it happen.” Wayne Huizenga

To arrange a free no obligation consultation, please contact Stephen Pauley via the contact form or by e mail: Stephen@befirstclass.co.uk