Out With The Old, In With The New

As we prepare for “out with the old, in with the new” as far as the calendar is concerned, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on where we are in the state of our travels.

Last week, I was facilitating a workshop about empowering language with a diverse group of women. We were discussing personal and professional goals. One of the questions I asked them to consider was “Where are you in your process [of reaching your stated goals]?”

Now, I admit: it was the first time I’d tried this particular exercise in a group, and here’s what I thought I’d hear: “I’ve made some progress” or “I haven’t started yet.”

Instead, I was blown away by one woman’s response.

“I’m exactly where I need to be.”

WOW! It was a great moment of self-awareness. As she explained what she meant to the group, I could see other women nodding their heads in understanding. And when she answered the last question “What’s getting in your way?” with “I’m the only thing in my own way!” the other women applauded and cheered for her.

When goal setting, we sometimes get caught up in what we didn’t accomplish, what didn’t happen or how we “failed” (or how others failed us). We base our resolutions for the coming year on previous resolutions, trying to “finish what we started” or “make up for lost time.”

What if you took a different approach this year?

As the year comes to a close, reflect on what happened in 2009. Do it in celebration for every step of progress made toward living the life you want to live.

Now, appreciate your process by acknowledging yourself: “I’m exactly where I need to be.”

With that as your starting point, moving forward into 2010 is a seamless and easy transition. No judgment. No failures. No guilt. Wherever you are with living your values, intentions and goals, you are exactly where you need to be. Rather than keeping score of personal wins and losses, focus on gratitude for your process and wherever you are in it.

Create a vision for 2010 that you are excited about! If anything shows up with a “should” attached to it, throw it out!

I have only one intention for 2010: to recognize and trust that I am exactly where I need to be at any given moment.

What will help you to live in gratitude, in the moment, being the change you wish to see?