Every year at this time, it’s tradition to make a few resolutions for the new year. And most resolutions are very personal. Many people really want to lose a few pounds, so more exercise and a better diet will be on their list for 2010. Or it may be the desire to be a better spouse and parent, so more time with the family would make the list. Improving organizational skills in the new year is another common resolution that many make.
All of these are worthy and commendable resolutions. But what about making a few professional resolutions? What should be on your list of work-related resolutions for 2010? Here are 5 resolutions you might want to consider for the coming year:
Resolve to make a breakthrough in 2010! You might be thinking, “Wait a minute. How do I resolve to make a breakthrough?” My answer is, just do it. It’s the power of positive thinking. Set out in 2010 to make one breakthrough in your job. It might be a change to a process that saves time or money. It might be a new idea that results in additional revenue — a new technique that boosts sales or an advertising slogan that helps move product. It may be a breakthrough with an employee you manage who just hasn’t been giving you the results you know they’re capable of. Whatever you choose, make it significant. If you set your mind to accomplish it, really make it a goal), you’ll do it.
Resolve to make a difference in one person’s life at work. It can be an employee who needs a mentor. That young, eager person looking for a leg up. Maybe it’s a coworker who is struggling on the job and would benefit from your wisdom and experience. It might be a customer that you know well who could really use your help in some way. Or a vendor you’ve worked with for a long time that’s in need of something you can give.
All of us are surrounded by people every day. We have a choice between making a positive difference in their lives or not. This year, pick one person for whom you believe you can make a difference and set about to make it happen. Have an impact on their life. You’ll find that you’ll get more than you give.
Resolve to remove the word “but” from your vocabulary at work. The people at Sarah Lee had white buttons made with a black slash through the word “but.” Imagine the workplace without the word “but.” No more “That’s a great idea, but . . .” or “We’d be willing to try that, but . . .” Why not start with you? Remove the word “but” from your vocabulary at work for one year. See what an impact it has on those around you. And maybe, just maybe, others will learn from your approach.
Resolve to be fearless at work. For one year, choose not to be afraid at work. Don’t be afraid of taking on a new project. Don’t be afraid of getting yelled at or even fired. Don’t be afraid of not having the answer. This is a conscious effort. You’ll have to work on it every day. You may have to fight your survival instincts. But if you can spend the next 12 months being fearless at work, you will be a better, more valuable employee and — I’d venture to guess — a much happier one, too.
Resolve to spend more time with your customers this year. Whatever type of industry you’re in, you can benefit from getting closer to your customers. If they don’t walk into your place of business every day, then go out and visit them. Ask them questions about their lives and how your product or service has an impact on them. How do they use what you provide? What would make it even better for them? How does your product or service compare to the competition? Talking to your customers more will lead only to good things. Make sure you do more of it in 2010.
All of us have the ability to be even better at work than what we are today. Choose to make 2010 a year in which you become even more valuable to your organization. Make a few resolutions at work this year and see what the results are if you really work at it. My guess is that you’ll probably surprise yourself!
Happy New Year!