Take 2023 by the Horns

by Frank L. Williams

I’ve often heard that time passes faster as you get older. If 2022 is an indicator, this statement is indisputably true. It’s hard for me to fathom that 2023 is only a few days away.

The passage of time from one year to the next is a time of reflection for many, myself included. The approach of a new year is a time to reflect on the past year, envision the future, set goals, and develop strategies and plans.

You’ll notice I didn’t say “resolutions.” For a number of years, I would indulge in the popular tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions. Somewhere along the way, I realized I was setting the same resolutions nearly every year.

Rather than set resolutions that are likely doomed to fail early in the New Year, I prefer to establish goals and develop clear, actionable strategies to achieve those goals. This year, one of my goals was to read two books each month, one for entertainment and one for professional development. In the week leading up to the new year I created a system to hold myself accountable. It looks like I’ll fall two books short of my goal, but I’m a whole lot closer than I would be if I had set a vague resolution such as “read more.”

I’ve been working on my goals and plans for 2023 for the past couple of weeks. During that time, my team and I have been reading Atomic Habits, which I highly recommend. While some of my goals for 2023 will be based on outcomes, many of them will be based on developing specific habits. The habits will generate the outcomes. 

The new year is coming, whether you’re ready or not. Take the bull by the horns and make 2023 a great year! You can start by utilizing the next few days to develop a clear vision of what you want your business — and your life — to look like, and then establishing some specific goals, plans, and accountability measures to make it happen. Your goals should be challenging but realistic. Put them on paper and share them with someone who will hold you accountable. 

Best wishes for a safe, happy, and productive 2023!