Why I Don’t Make New Year’s Resolutions

Happy New Year! The year 2018 has rolled away to reveal a new year 2019. On the first day of the year it is customary to make resolutions, set goals and hope for answered prayers. I used to be part of group of people who make resolutions until about 3 years ago. It occurred to me that making resolutions did not provide the results and the focus is very temporary. I found that, like most people, the desire to stick to the so-called New Year’s resolutions faded away as the month of January went into oblivion. For me, as the end of the year approached, I actually would start to feel guilty that I had not done the things that I said I would do when the year began.

My view of life and the things that I set out to accomplish changed for the best as I thought less about making new year’s resolutions and focused more on setting actual goals and working to make them happen rather than tying them to a specific year or season. Some of my goals even extend through the following year. This method allows me to monitor my accomplishments in terms of my actual pace and progress rather than try to link them to end of year marathons. I have found that when the pace that I set to work within my goals are not tied to other people’s timeline, I actually perform very well. It in no way translate to me being slow, it only means that I am working my goals within my strength and ability and at a pace that suits my urgency and style.

The year 2018 defined me in unexpected ways. I saw my passion for craft-making move from being a hobby to an actual business that earned me income. This was a surprise because the opportunity to start charging for my items came from someone who wanted to pay me for my work rather than have it as a gift. She thought the item was very nicely done and offered a fairly handsome price to show her seriousness. She even encouraged me to think about selling everything that I made. A business was born out of the thoughtfulness and honesty of a accidental customer.

I also made great connections on social media through unexpected response to my posts. Always post great content because you never know who is reading and watching. Today, I have a network of great followers some of whom I have not yet met, except through telephone conversations, email, texting and chatting, but whom today I consider true friends. Rather than being resolutions, these unexpected opportunities were directly linked to one of my goals – to turn a hobby into profit. Although I did not realize how I would fully accomplish that goal, I kept doing all the right things and someone noticed. Dance like no one’s watching!

So as you make plans to prosper and reach new heights in 2019, it is important to not only think about the “what” as in the goals and things you want to accomplish. Think also about the unexpected blessings you will find in the great connections that come your way. Building great relationships in business is a great way to position your business to grow. Work your plans and goals consistently and to the best of your ability – be relentless.

I love surprises and when they come in form of unexpected blessings, I wholeheartedly embrace my blessings and make full use of the opportunity that is presented to me. Watch out for yours, put your best self forward each day.
I wish you a prosperous 2019 and beyond!