If you’ve been
with me for a while, you know what time it is. It’s time to make your Success List!
This is an annual ritual of writing down all your successes for this year before creating your goals or resolutions for the new year.
We rarely pause to celebrate and savor all we have accomplished, professionally and personally, before moving on to the next thing on our eternal “to do” list.
This simple, conscious practice will not only make you feel good but it will also give you the confidence and focus you need to achieve your 2016 goals.
Here’s what to do. Start by writing numbers one through 20 down the left margin of your paper so you’ll list at least 20 successes. More is 
better!
Consider what you’re most proud of this year, including your family, health, work, finances and fun.
Then, go deeper to the lessons learned and gifts that come from disappointments and setbacks.
Once your Success List is complete, share it with others–from coworkers and employees to friends and family–and invite them to do the same. Our family has been doing this for at least a decade.
Two of my 2015 successes are:
- I began presenting speaking programs for several ideal clients, including Walmart, Marriott and Verizon.
- Throughout the year, I enjoyed vacations with my family to Gulf Shores, Ala., New York City, Washington, D.C., and Isla Mujeres, Mexico, where we celebrated the upcoming University of Georgia graduation of our twins, Connor and Allyson.
What’s one of your successes? Please share it here! We can savor and celebrate it together.
The greatest professional success I experienced this year was that I began to appreciate the value I bring to clients, rather than looking for outside sources to point it out to me. Subtle shift; big impact.
Insights like that are priceless, Mandy!
Lately I’ve been musing on the idea that we can create our own opportunities. Any entrepreneur knows that is true. One of my successes in 2015 has been publishing “Love Coloring,” my coloring book filled with original love-themed doodles. I started drawing the pages over July 4th weekend after getting “nos” and “not nows” from several prospective clients in my pipeline. Since I teach Doodling as a Meditation, I felt doodling coloring pages was something fun and productive I could focus on instead of rehashing recent disappointments. As of January 2016, “Love Coloring” will be making its way into bookstores around the country through the acclaimed distributor DeVorss & Company. In addition, I have developed a customized coloring booklet for businesses using my illustrations and licensing those of another artist. (Businesses choose eight coloring pages from over 70 art options.) This turn of events is another poignant reminder to keep looking beyond the closed door immediately in front of me to what may be opening up just a few more steps ahead.
Very wise, Vanessa. I love coloring and especially your beautiful doodles. http://www.amazon.com/Love-Coloring-Active-Artful-2-Pack/dp/0991257049
Just this week, two one-on-one interviews with the COO of my hospitality client appeared in key trade publications. A similar interview appeared in another key trade two months ago, highlighting company growth and success. My goal for 2015 was to secure meaningful placements for the client in these publications. The placements will build positive awareness of the firm and what makes it distinctive. Goal accomplished!
You are the ultimate PR pro, Margaret! Congratulations on setting and reaching that intention.
Partnerships have been a big part of our success this year. I’ve partnered with two other companies whose services compliment mine and it’s really been a great way to serve my clients. We can offer services as a team and cover even more expertise together.
Plus, it’s fun to work with other dedicated professionals! Best wishes for a bright new year, Desiree.
Just finished doing a review of the years accomplishments. I agree that it’s important to celebrate before planning next year.
My biggest accomplishment this year is finishing my manuscript, ‘Building A Life You Love After Losing the Love of Your Life’ which will be released in January.
I had the pleasure to read and review an advanced copy and know you will touch a lot of lives with your wisdom, Myra.
Recently I said good bye to an old client – while it is never easy saying good-bye, I did so with a sigh of relief and faith that this was no longer an ideal client. I am clearer now more than ever on what kind of client is best for me and I am excited about who God will connect me with next!!
Letting go of a challenging client is often the first step to attracting an ideal one. Glad you’re updating your ideal client statement, Elizabeth! That will help it happen faster.
Tricia, I love your idea of listing successes – that’s the perfect preparation for even more of them in the new year! Here are a few of mine…
1. I did more paid presentations this year than ever before and am poised for even more in 2016.
2. June Cline and I put out a book that debuted at #1 on Amazon.com.
3. Almost all of my work and speaking came from referrals this year. It’s such a gift to have people think that highly of how I can be of service to them.
Here’s to a fabulous 2016 for all of us – there’s plenty of success and goodness to go around!
You inspire me, Sandy! Spreading happiness is a brilliant intention and business model. It suits you perfectly. What are you speaking on?
Tricia,
You’ve had an impact on my life (and my happiness) for years now. I’ve learned to listen intently when you give me advice.
In 2015, the #1 success was launching a new experience design offering that puts our clients and their customers on stage with our designers, directors, and actors to rehearse their future experiences until they are perfect. We’ve been lucky enough to assemble an amazing team, get some best-in-class clients, and already improve our methods and the supporting technology. We’ll be launching this (officially) soon and I’m really excited.
Thanks again for all you do for friends and others alike. These are the good old days.
Best,
Mike
I love how we support each other.
Hi Tricia,
My biggest success this year comes from my intention (set early in 2014) to blend my love of international travel with customer business. In 2014, I went to Barcelona. This year I traveled to Munich for client work and then play. My intention is for 3-4 of these per year. Next year, I’m already booked for London and another trip to Barcelona.
My 2nd biggest success was making the decision – finally – to downsize my life, sell my house and essentially reboot and start fresh. Probably the best thing I’ve done for myself in years!!
Loved seeing your successes – keep it up!!
–B
What life-changing goals you’ve achieved, Barb, that will lead to even more joy. Congratulations!
I’m savoring the way my business has grown this year. Terrific clients, fascinating projects and great teamwork. #2015success
Congratulations, Lynn! What do you enjoy doing the most and would like to do more of in the new year?
I accepted the opportunity for an international assignment! I worked in Montivideo, Uruguay from August to December implementing an Integrated Planning Department and creating many new forecasting and planning processes. Personally, it was my first time in South America so I also had the opportunity to visit Buenos Aires Argentina, Santiago Chile, Rio De Janeiro and Iguazu Falls in Brazil. Amazing professional and personal success.
You are fortunate to work with an international company like Coca-Cola where you have those opportunities, and smart to capitalize on them. To more adventures in 2016!
I got my accreditation in public relations this year — it has been on my professional bucket list for years, and I’m proud of the focus and determination I exhibited throughout the year. I’m also happy to be growing my business by almost 100% in the second full year as an independent public relations consultant. My goal in 2016 is to remember why I went out on my own and to exercise the work flexibility my position gives me. My husband and I are planning a long overdue trip to Europe this year.
Congratulations, Lynn! Your focus and determination inspire me.