A few years ago, I started a new job with a health system right before my birthday. So I was surprised when my new boss gave me a really nice birthday gift: a purple long-sleeved pullover with the phrase “Engage in Life” embroidered on the front. (I think it was leftover from a cancer fundraiser, but since all of my previous work experience was with non-profits, I was just excited to get something for my birthday besides a card!)
I wear the pullover all the time now and I love to think about the phrase “Engage in Life” every time I notice it in the mirror. It reminds me to stay involved in what I’m doing each moment of the day. Engage with my kids. Engage with my clients. Engage with my husband.
How will you engage in life in 2015? The start of a new year is a perfect time to dream about what you want to accomplish and set some goals for the next 12 months. Here are some tips to help you reach your goals:
- Write them down. Keep them somewhere you’ll see them all the time– like a frame on your bedside nightstand.
- Make sure they are specific and measurable. How will you know when you’re done? “Become a kinder person” is a nice idea but will be hard to accomplish. You’re more likely to follow through with a specific goal like “Take tennis lessons every Saturday for 8 weeks” or “Plan a date night with the hubby each month.”
- Be realistic. Don’t set a goal of losing 100 pounds in a week– it won’t happen. Set yourself up for success by making sure your goals are actually achievable.
This time next year, you could be celebrating all of your accomplished goals! Don’t let the coming year just pass by… Engage!