Three Amandas and a Christine Ringing in 2012
I’ve always had this thing against New Year’s. Actually, who doesn’t? Around mid-December I’m convinced a familiar dread sets in with folks around the world… Who will I spend it with? What will we do? Go out or stay in? Will a guy/gal be involved? Will there be a kiss? Sigh. My only comfort is these sentiments resonate with so many.
Yet in my year of deciding I’m the CEO of myself, I declared the end of 2011 would be different. Rather than worry about the logistics of the night – I set out to use it to reflect on the great things that happened this year as well as set some goals for 2012.
Some of my friends had similar paths of discovery so we decided to ring in 2012 together and focus on our success. New Year’s Eve morning, we set our plans at Clover Club in Brooklyn and I sent the following email:
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From: Mandy
To: Christine; Amanda
Date: Sat, Dec 31, 2011 at 11:39 AM
Subject: Re: PLAN PLAN PLAN
Great. I will be wearing something that sparkles (with Jeans).
One thing, I think we should each bring a list of our 5 favorite things about 2011; and 3 things we’re looking forward to in 2012. They don’t have to be resolutions – but maybe 3 things we’re going to make happen!
I like the idea of structured conversation;-)
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I’m not sure if it was the coaching training or what, but I was insistent that we completed a formalized exercise. And thus the “5 & 3 Exercise” was born.
New Year’s Reflection: 5 & 3 Exercise
Look back on 2011; what are your 5 favorite moments? They can be work related, personal growth, trips, favorite laughs… Anything that comes to mind for you!
Look ahead to 2012; what are your goals? Think S.M.A.R.T-like, meaning specific, measurable, actionable, realistic and timely (or within a time limit).
For reference, here’s my *exact* list as typed out for our discussion:
5 Favorite Things:
1) February 11 – Freedom!
My final day in corporate America, the day I opened myself up to anything.
2) Coaching Certificate & Career Path
Decided I was interested in coaching in May and was certified by mid-December. Currently have five clients!
3) 7 guys – uncountable lessons
A year of discovery on the relationship front. Dinner convo yielded a few more details, but those are between me, the Amandas, Christine and the bubbly.
4) August 11 – Party!
The official end of the six months off and the realization I could continue on my path.
5) Thanksgiving Weekend in NYC
At what age does a “single” woman get to decide she wants to celebrate the holidays her way? Apparently 32.
3 Goals for 2012
1) Set up a new home I love
Find a new apartment in one of two Brooklyn neighborhoods and set it up to be a place I’m in for the long haul. In addition to a bedroom, it needs to have a small office-like space.
2) Earn six figures while self-employed
Develop a measurable business plan that features a mix of Ladies Who Launch, private coaching and marketing projects to get me to $100,000 by the end of 2012.
3) Continue process of finding a partner
You can’t meet people unless your open. As I move into 2012 I’ll continue to be open and honest with myself and others about what I want in a romantic partner.
But enough about me, what are your 5 favorites of 2011 and 3 goals for 2012? We had a ton of fun with this exercise last night and I encourage you to participate in recognizing 2011′s great memories and setting measurable goals for the future. I’d love to hear em’… If you want to share below.
Happy New Year!