I don’t typically make resolutions at the start of the year. Through some friends I came across an alternate idea that blogger and podcaster Chris Brogan uses.
Instead of resolutions, he suggests choosing three words as themes for the year for things you want to focus on. I’ve done this a couple of times and when I have chosen the right words they have helped me.
Here are my three words for 2020
1 – Progress.
Last year there were some things I was working on. I was making some progress but not as fast as I wanted, so I let my attention slip. Instead of making continual progress it sputtered and stalled. If I had kept going with it by the end of the year I would have made a lot of progress. Maybe I wouldn’t have reached my goal – but I would have been happier and better off if I had kept going.
This year I want to recognize that I am making progress – even it’s slow – and keep my eye on where I want to end up. Some progress is better than none, and even small progress takes you in the direction you want to head.
2 – Fun.
I want to have more fun both at work and away from work. Life is much better when you are laughing.
I’ve been putting my sense of humor to work with “alternate” reasons to get a massage on Instagram and Facebook, such as:
- You’ll be safe from shark attacks (and having to listen to “Baby Shark”)
- You won’t get frozen in carbonite
- You won’t have to keep feeding quarters to the massage table
Most of this is for my own amusement. I let my mind wander and see what nonsense it comes up with and go with it. If you want to follow along you can find me on Instagram @MainStreetMassageHudson.
It helps people get to know me more, which helps them relax and get great results from their massage.
I’ll still do what needs to be done, even if it’s a boring task like laundry. But I’ll try to have more fun doing it.
3 – Positive.
I intend to be much more positive this year. Particularly to myself. Instead of criticizing myself I’m going to encourage myself.
I know there will be problems and issues. Things won’t always turn out how I want. I’ll still make mistakes.
However, I’ve been finding that when I’m more positive I feel better about myself. When I feel better I get more done. I see more opportunities and I take more action. When I’m positive more things seem to turn out better and issues get resolved easier. I feel less stressed because I expect things to work out for me.
Progress, Fun, and Positive are my words this year.
I think they will help – partly because I actually started making these changes in the fall and I’ve seen results. I’ve made some progress, had more fun, and have been more positive.
What words do you want to focus on this year? You don’t have to start on January 1 – you can make a change anytime.
Barry is a licensed Massage Therapist at Main Street Massage in Hudson, Ohio. Find out more about him, his business, and massage at www.HudsonMassageTherapy.com
