So here we are at the beginning of 2024, and with it comes the annual ritual of crafting resolutions. You know, the usual drill of promising to streamline, read more books, innovate, maintain work-life balance, and maybe magically turn into a morning person. 

But let's get real, how often do those plans actually survive the pressures of leadership life? More often than not, they find themselves abandoned on the dusty shelves of good intentions. Not to mention the relentless tide of time and the scattered remnants of routine. Unsurprisingly, research consistently shows that a significant percentage of New Year's resolutions fail, often within the first few weeks.

The allure of a new beginning is powerful, yet the strategies used in setting resolutions often lack the depth needed for lasting change. So, what if we shift our focus from resolutions to a more profound approach – the power of getting “complete” with the past and being intentional about creating the future?

The Power of Getting Complete

Imagine the New Year as a pristine canvas, awaiting the creation of your best year yet. Now, visualize that canvas cluttered with unresolved conflicts, lingering issues, and conflicting priorities. These incompletions act as roadblocks, hindering your growth and limiting your leadership potential. Getting complete entails removing this debris, clearing the canvas on which to paint your next chapter.

This involves addressing three key areas:

1. Completion with others: This means tackling those pesky conflicts, offering closure, and nurturing positive relationships.

2. Completion with yourself: Forgive yourself for past mistakes, learn from them, and move forward. Let go of the baggage you've been carrying and embrace the lightness of being in the present.

3. Completion with situations: Take a hard look at the circumstances around you. Are there things you can change to improve your personal and professional growth? Don't be afraid to shake things up –sometimes, the most breathtaking art emerges from breaking free from limitations.

Getting complete isn't just about tidying up; it’s approaching leadership and your personal life with a clean slate to push forward with clarity and focus. This allows you to dedicate your energy to forging the future you envision, liberated from the shackles of the past.

And let's not forget the healing impact of forgiveness. It's not just about letting others off the hook; it's about liberating yourself from negativity and resentment. Studies show that forgiveness can improve mental health, reduce stress, and even boost your overall well-being. In the context of leadership, it can forge stronger relationships and create a more positive work environment.

The Value of Being Intentional

Now, let's talk about living intentionally. This isn't about rigid goals and life OKRs; it's about introspection and mindfulness as you continue to grow as a leader. It's about asking yourself:

·        What truly matters to me?

·        What inspires and enlivens me?

·        How do I want to navigate the road ahead?

Finding clarity on these questions will give you a sense of purpose and direction, guiding your leadership choices and decisions.

Of course, living and leading with intention doesn't mean playing it safe. Picture it as a precarious walk on the "skinny branches" of life. Take calculated risks, step outside your comfort zone, and don't be afraid to stumble and fall. It's through these experiences that we learn the most and ultimately become better leaders.

As we dive into this year, remember: true transformation doesn't happen overnight. Take time for yourself, reflect on the past, and let go of what no longer serves you. Then, embrace the power of intentionality. Identify the biggest aspect in your professional and personal life you want to improve, the small and big wins you hope to accomplish, the areas you want to invest your precious time and energy in.

But before you jump into goal-setting mode, take a moment for self-care. Reconnect with your inner voice and rediscover what truly sparks your joy. Remind yourself to have fun along the way!

Now, with a clear mind and a renewed spirit, craft a vision that inspires you—a vision not based on fleeting desires, but on a deep understanding of who you are as a person and the kind of leader you aspire to be.

To support you on this journey, we’re offering a complimentary masterclass:

Join us for an immersive virtual experience we call “Finish Strong, Start Stronger”.

In this masterclass, we will delve into the power of letting go of the past, and being an intentional creator of your future.  This collaborative space is designed for leaders seeking inspiration, growth, and clarity. You will be guided  through a process where you will gain insights through self-reflection, and engage in breakout sessions for meaningful interaction with like-minded individuals. This is not your typical goal-setting conversation. This involves digging into your personal and professional aspirations, to fuel your passion to finish strong and start stronger!

Be sure to join us on January 12th at 12pm CST for a 45-minute masterclass, where you can participate from the comfort of your home or office. Not able to make it on the 12th? No worries! This session will be recorded and made available. If you want to have access, please be sure to register below.   

Please click here to register for the free Finish Strong, Start Stronger Masterclass! 

Together, let's redefine the playbook for 2024 and become intentional creators of our professional and personal narratives!