This time of the year everyone is thinking about a fresh start. On my recent vacation I wrote 2009 in the sand and watched it wash away. A clean slate; a blank canvas to paint. It felt great to lead my own personal ritual of renewal—not because 2009 was horrible, but it was hard for a lot of folks. Since then I’ve spent some time creating a list of my 2010 RiverFork goals and my personal goals. In doing so, I thought about things I don’t want to do in 2010. Reaching goals requires eagle eye focus, and we all have blind spots. Acknowledging your blind spots can help you stay on track. Here’s my Don’t Do List for 2010. I hope you consider one, too, and link it to this post.
- Don’t be limited by what your mind is telling you. Your mind, like your body, requires training. When you’re mind is working against you, acknowledge it and tell it to shut up! Practice training your mind to be on your side.
- Don’t associate with trolls. You know, the cynics that tear you and your ideas down. They are the critics that gossip and create drama—avoid them, ignore them, don’t spend time with them.
- Don’t stop working out regularly. Remember… healthy body, healthy mind, better person. Fitness, whether it be personal fitness or organizational fitness requires ongoing practice.
- Don’t be so attached to how you think things should or should not be. Let go. Look forward. Contribute.
- Don’t let others define what should or should not be in your world. You get to make that choice.
- Don’t get discouraged by failing trying and “No.” Great ideas require many ideas. Capitalize on your do-overs.
- Don’t be so in your head. My riding coach always tells me, “Melissa, get out of your head!” Be quiet and listen to your gut.
- Don’t get distracted by so much information (Twitter anyone?). Pick a few to stay tied into, build relationships with those folks, and pay attention.
- Don’t stop being open, fully open, to the possibilities that lie before you. Be quiet enough to notice them.
- Don’t stop writing.
