A new year is the perfect time to create fresh, new goals and experiences. Once the year begins, we experience surprises and detours.
In the past few weeks, I have traveled to a destination four different times; Each trip followed a different path with different results. Half of these trips were more successful than the other half.
The first trip was considered a success. After traveling for 30 minutes, I turned on my GPS. Two hours and 20 minutes later, with zero U-turns, I arrived at my destination.
On my second trip, I programmed my GPS from my house. The problem with this trip was the GPS instructed me to exit two exits too soon. Once I realized I was on a different route, I had no phone service and couldn’t access my maps or an alternative route. Three hours later, I finally arrived at the destination.
To avoid the mistakes I made on my previous trip, on trip number three, I ignored the first two exits that Mr. GPS prompted me to take, resulting in another mishap. I missed the correct exit because I had selective hearing and tuned out the GPS voice. I finally arrived at the destination more than three hours later.
On my final trip, I did not turn on the GPS and trusted my instincts. Two hours and 20 minutes later, I successfully arrived at the destination with no wrong turns.
Have you ever depended on a reliable source, like a GPS, only to be disappointed in the approach and results? As we prepare for a new year, what is your plan? What reliable tools are you using to help you navigate the new year?
The lessons I learned while relying on my GPS can be adopted as we navigate the new year.
Plan
Look at your map before the new year begins. Study your routes and choose your best option. Document your path in a personal growth plan, an intentional document that captures your 2024 goals. Which route is the best for you that will make your next year efficient and successful?
Be present and focus
In the book “One Word That Will Change Your Life,” Jon Gordon, Dan Britton and Jimmy Page encourage readers to choose one word to focus their year instead of a goal or New Year’s resolution. This word will help you avoid distractions and stay focused on the desired path.
Trust your instincts
There are a variety of strategies and ideas that have worked for others. It is not healthy to think we can implement all ideas successfully. Instead, follow your instincts and choose a path that caters to your style and preferences. Turn off the distractions and trust your instincts.
Taking new roads in the dark gives a different perspective and view than traveling during daylight hours. We need guidance from tools like GPS until we are confident on our path.
While traveling this month, I did not always arrive at my destination in the most efficient timeline. However, I did arrive safely with many learning lessons along the way.
At the end of 2024, you will find the same. Implement the guidance of growth tools others have found successful, tweak them to meet your goals and embrace many learning lessons on your way to your new destination.
Get started by downloading a personal growth template at tinyurl.com/2y8xdhxy.