Success framework for 2021
The end of 2020 is in sight and millions of Americans shell-shocked by the ravages of COVID-19 are hoping for a better
2021. Having weathered the massive downsizings of the ‘90s and the Great Recession of 2008, I know that we can get through the challenges of this pandemic. The new year gives us the opportunity to recalibrate our lives, reset our goals and renew our expectations.
If you are like many of us, you have been doggedly putting one foot in front of the other hoping for some relief from the chaos and uncertainty. This December give yourself a gift. Lift up your head and take a good long look at the horizon. Reflect on where you have been and where you want to go.
Here are some questions to help you get started. We have a tendency to be too hard on ourselves so remember it has been a tough year and cut yourself some slack.
Let’s start with the pluses.
Where and how did you make a difference with family, professionally or in your community? What things have you accomplished for which you would most like to be remembered?
What were your successes and miracles? Yes, you may not have hit the marks you set for yourself early in the year, but given what you know now, what were your hard-won achievements? What did you do that kept you on track or prevented you from backsliding?
Where did you miss the mark or drop the ball? Don’t dwell on these miscues, simply acknowledge them for what they are and commit to doing better in the coming year. We are all a work in progress.
What would you like to let go of, do less of, or stop doing entirely in 2021? Great! Start today. What would you like to continue to do, do more of, or start doing in the new year? Focus on the things that worked last year and look for ways to more fully incorporate those habits and practices into your daily life
Now, turn your focus more specifically to your career. The world has changed drastically in the past nine months. Answering the following questions will help you think differently about your work. Are you doing the work that you were meant to do? What are the risks and rewards to your career going forward if you stay on the same path? What are the risks and rewards if you change direction? What opportunities and threats have materialized in the months since the pandemic hit? How can you take advantage of or minimize them?
Finally, a few more questions to help you set the stage for a better 2021 and beyond. What do you need to accomplish in the coming year to stay on a level playing field? What is one stretch goal that if achieved would move you out front? How long do you plan to work? Will what you are doing now enable you to comfortably retire? If not, how can you alter course so you can get where you want to go on time?
I hope these questions provide a framework for creating a successful 2021. Wishing you health and happiness throughout the year. Happy New Year!