Karen Keller
Making well defined resolutions is the cornerstone in getting ahead. The quality and success of your resolutions depend on your willingness to stay committed to them.
How is a resolution related to getting ahead? A resolution is defined as a formal expression or intention to make a decision or arrive at a solution. When you make a resolution you are making a commitment to doing something that moves you forward.
Anything less than a strong resolution is weak at best. For instance, compare this statement, "I can try to finish this project" to "I will finish this project ahead of schedule." Which statement assures completion?
The latter one speaks of certainty, confidence and determination.
Every person knows the value and necessity of getting ahead – in their work, sales, relationships and opportunities. It means promotion, respect, and a feeling of accomplishment. This is all connected to believing, stating and acting on what you resolve in your mind, words and behavior.
Here are 5 resolutions that will move you ahead in your work.
1. Talk positive at the water cooler. How easy is that? Not really. People fall into the trap of needing to have something to say regardless if the facts check out or if the facts need to be repeated. Remember that repeating gossip says more about your needs than it does about the victim. Bonus: leave the negative self-talk in the past. Yes, you are successful. Yes, you can get that promotion. Yes, you are a master at what you do! Oh, and don't forget to spread GOOD news!
2. Read, listen to and live the words of good people. Select at least three books that offer words of wisdom from great philosophers or people who made a difference in this world. This doesn’t mean loading up on the latest self-help repertoire. You need to find writers whose philosophy you can identify with. Next, truthfully evaluate how closely you may resemble them. If not as close as you wish, then what is your plan to get there?
3. Look beyond "too-good-to-be-true" promises, because they usually are. That doesn't mean you have to be a skeptic or cynic but you do have to consider the real meaning and intention of the sender. Do you easily jump at the first suggestion or do you contemplate what will be best for you? That means you have to not only have patience but exercise restraint. These are different - which one are you good at?
4. Do good for the common good. Is your decision best only for you? Will it have severe consequences for other people? If you really want it, how can you flex it or make it work so that everyone wins? This challenge is what separates the mice from the men, and ladies, too. Never underestimate the power of taking care of your "people" environment.
5. Tell the TRUTH! Keeping this resolution will put you on top! The top is where you will find self-respect and the respect of others. You will find courage because telling the truth is tough especially when it may cause problems or disappoint others. Have faith that the truth will be your biggest and most forgiving ally.
Stating and committing to resolutions designed to get you ahead will continue to develop your promise to make it to the top. What are your top resolutions that will propel you forward, earning you recognition and reward?
