"So many fail because they don't get started - they don't go.  They don't overcome inertia.  They don't begin."  - W. Clement Stone


So it's the end of the year again and like clock work, it's that time when many of us take a few moments to appreciate our blessings, wallow in our self-pity or review our accomplishments for the year... what worked, what didn't and where we would like to make adjustments.  Some of us thumb through the "don't leave home without it" day planner, others the personal journal laying bedside, some our thoughts and memories and others, like myself, the good ole' VBS Benchmark Recorder.

Whether you're starting out on a new foot - be it the new year, tired of the hustle and bustle of life, not enough hours in the day, under exercised, procrastination, or just because ... I like to recommend beginning by identifying what worked (your strengths).  Give yourself Kudos!  You deserve it.  Write them down if you haven't done so already and place them somewhere where you can visualize them daily (e.g. bulletin board, bathroom mirror, wallet).  If you need help, ask someone whose opinion you value to assist you.

Next, turn on some music and clear off your work space.  Throw away things you haven't used, won't use or can't identify.  If you haven't used it by now, you probably won't in the future.  This also includes rooms, closets and drawers... things you haven't seen, worn or are out of date (e.g. Member's Only Jackets).  This tends to be a difficult task for most of us, yearning to keep those childhood memories alive.  With me it was those ole' Bongo Jeans I've had since high school that I prayed I would one day fit into again, even after 20+ years.  Although time repeats itself (i.e. the hustle vs. electric slide) some trends come back in style like those emphasis bell bottom jeans.  Here's a clue, just because you had them, wore them, or continue to be in your possession doesn't mean you need to keep them "just in case"  they ever did come back in style.  I know it's hard but some things you just need to toss.

Lastly, write down what you would like to accomplish for the upcoming month or year no matter how upsurd you think you may sound.  Use it as your driving force, your motivation to go beyond what you did last year, last month,  or even last week.  Begin scheduling daily stepping stones to reach your desired goal.


© 2008 Mahogany Vida Enterprises, LLC

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR EZINE OR WEB SITE?  You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it.  Author, Lifestyle Balance Specialist & Licensed Clinical Social Worker - De Vida Bell - teaches people with "busy" schedules and "active" lifestyles how to balance their life, by channeling into each one of their core life areas, while focusing on their growth and freedom.  Visit http://mahoganyvida.com for more information.  Discover tips on how to maintain balance between your personal, professional and private life by getting her FREE monthly ezine Lifestyle 'N Motion at http://www.mcssl.com/app/join.asp?merchantid=159227