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Dec 29, 2009 -

What, if anything, are you doing to set the tone for next year?

Are you just hoping to make it through to the end of this year so you can make your New Year's resolutions? Many folks are, you know. Or do you have something more intentional in mind to clear away the old and make way for the new?

The end of December is here. For many of us, it's been a mad dash, beginning with Thanksgiving and continuing on through Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa and the New Year with an increase in activity, family events, and business functions.

Let’s face it. It's been exhausting!

With the New Year fast approaching, it's time to say, “Out with the old. In with the new!” It's time to find a place of peace and quiet amidst the hustle and bustle where you can reflect on 2009 and make way for what you want to attract in 2010.

Here's a fun exercise you can do this month.

In the spirit of preparing for a fantastic new year, set aside 15 to 20 minutes to be alone in a quiet, serene environment. Curl up in your favorite chair or place on the couch. Make yourself a warm cup of tea or hot cocoa. Then settle in for some precious "you time" to clear out the old and make way for the new. 

Three Steps for a Bright New Year

Step One: On a piece of paper, write the following three lists:

1.    Top 10 Things I Found Challenging this Year

What tested you the most? What did you find most taxing? What were your biggest problems, most difficult tasks, and major trials? 

2.    Top 10 Things I Gained this Year

What did you acquire or achieve? What attributes did you grow into? What big things did you win, reap, or land?

3.    Top 10 Things I'm Open to Experiencing in 2010

What new experiences are you open to? What are you willing to have more of, be connected to, or participate in? 

Step Two: Read over these lists and reflect on them for 5 to 10 minutes until you clearly feel that your past year is finished and that your intentions for the coming year have already been accomplished.

Step Three: Burn all three lists. As you watch them burn, affirm to yourself, "And so it is done."

Don't wait for January 1^st to make your New Year's resolutions. Now, as December winds down, it is a good time to begin thinking about what you want to usher in for yourself and your business in 2010. Enjoy and have fun with this "Three Steps to a Bright New Year" exercise. Then, on New Year’s Eve, you’ll be prepared to exclaim, “Out with the old. In with the new!”

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About the Author: Dr. Susan L. Reid is a business coach and consultant for entrepreneurial women starting businesses. She is the award-winning author of “Discovering Your Inner Samurai: The Entrepreneurial Woman’s Journey to Business Success,” and has a free chapter PDF of her most popular chapter: “Doing What You Love: Multiple Streams of Passion” for those who want see how persistence, patience and practice can really pay off.