Note To Self - "09 Is Mine"

Out with the old and in with the new, a long lived tradition of many people across the world. Every New Year many people start off with a resolution but even fewer go through with it. For some, the pressure of simply saying it gives them a feeling of dread. Why do that to yourself? Why not give yourself permission to succeed? So instead of a long list of to-do’s, simply write yourself a note.

You don’t have to start off with many notes. In fact give yourself permission to only have two or three notes at first. As you accomplish them, give yourself a new note. Make sure you select the best stationary that you can afford at the time. As you grow, your stationary may also reflect your growth.

Sit down in a quite place and really think about what it is that you wish to accomplish. Be sure to write down these important facts in the note:
1. What to you wish to accomplish
2. Why do you want to do this
3. When is the accomplishment date
4. Who will benefit from its completion
5. Where will you be when it is done

Everything we do in life has a plan. Not doing anything with your life at all – that, is your plan. If you are making $250,000 a year – that is your plan. No matter the day or time, be sure that you are following a plan. So instead of making grand statements of what you will do this year, start off with an achievable approach first. No more resolutions and lofty promises. Simply write a note to yourself. When you change your outlook and perception on life the things around you will reflect your positive affirmation and mental attitude. You will change not only yourself but those around you.

The way in which you go about life determines what you receive. Instead of saying, “I want to lose 20 pounds” without having a plan other than the phrase, “I will go on a diet” your success rate will be low. But stating that you will change your lifestyle by eating healthy foods and exercising by a certain date, you will get there. Maybe you wish to have a make over. Select fashion that is appropriate for your body shape, age and place in life. If you are striving to be an executive this year, dress the part. If you have a more labor intensive job, get a more modern and fresh haircut.

When you decide to act on a note to self, jot down the date you start, goal date and accomplishment date in the corner as a visual. As you achieve each one, don’t throw it away. Instead, keep it until the end of the year. From time to time, take a moment to look at your notes and at all that you have accomplished. Being able to visualize your accomplishments may be hard for some, so when you are able to look at your notes in a physical form, you are now able to see what success looks like. When you are able to see what success looks like, you are able to see it more clearly each time you strive for the next goal.

Be sure to reward yourself for each note completed. One way you can do this is to get a charm bracelet. Select a charm to add to the bracelet each time you are successful. Order flowers for yourself and have them delivered to your job with a note that says I’m proud of you. This is another positive reaffirmation of your accomplishments.

Your brain is your body’s computer. Inputting data is vital. The better the data, the better your reports and statistics will be. If you are putting in junk and visiting the wrong website, don’t be surprised when you get a virus. Being around like-minded people is also very important. If you have an issue with eating the proper foods, being around people who only eat junk food will not help you. Spending time with your friends who love to eat fresh fruits and veggies, will give you a jump start on your note to self, each time. They will share with you bits of wisdom that they have gathered along the path of healthy eating, thus, changing your life, by touching those around them. There’s two old expression that come to mind – when you lay down with dogs you get flees and birds of a feather flock together. Well, the same holds true in day-to-day life. Having a mentor and being around those that you wish to learn from is always a sign of a person who wishes to succeed.

So as 2009 begins, begin your life on a positive note. Write down all the things that you are thankful for. You may be surprised at what you have accomplished already.

Here's to a wonderful year!
Rev. Angela Butts Chester