When I was employed in the business world, there was a lot of focus on goal-setting and performance reviews. Organizations would make big productions out of identifying goals, measuring goals, revising goals, and concocting new goals for the following year. I recall spending many hours complying with all of this analyses, but I always thought that we would be more productive if we just did the work, instead of scrutinize the goals surrounding the work.
In the intervening years, I coasted and did not pay much attention to goals. Because of this negative experience of goal-setting, I never really got into New Year's resolutions. Instead, I tried to stay focused, not get too distracted, and do the best I could.
All my goals now are related to becoming a better person. Ann Landers got it right when she said: “Let this coming year be better than all the others. Vow to do some of the things you have always wanted to do but could not find the time. Call up a forgotten friend. Drop an old grudge, and replace it with some pleasant memories. Vow not to make a promise you do not think you can keep. Walk tall, and smile more. You will look 10 years younger. Do not be afraid to say, I love you. Say it again. They are the sweetest words in the world.” – Ann Landers
Oprah Winfrey made a similar statement when she said, “Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.”
I would like you to join me in toasting the New Year with another chance to get it right and become a better person.
