Anyone who knows me well, knows that I routinely work off of checklists. Both at work and at home.
Every year at this time, I break out a checklist of the 20 things that I would like to complete by the year’s end. I find it rewarding to use and it is a good day to day reminder of what little things to be focusing on that can ultimately add up to significant, positive results. I’d thought I would share with you…
Be aware of everything you put into your body.
You know how this time of year kind of creeps up on you? There seems to be a dish of candy, a plate of cookies or an extra bottle of wine almost everywhere we turn. A little nibble here, a small bite there, an extra glass now and then. Next thing you know, it’s January 1st and you are making a resolution to rid yourself of the extra 5 lbs. that miraculously showed up over the course of December.
Mend a broken relationship.
You know exactly who I’m referring to. Pick up the phone, reach out to them and fix that relationship that you know needs fixing.
Send a thank you card
The power of the simple thank you is immeasurable and amazingly underutilized.
Release others’ expectations
It’s one thing to have expectations of one’s self and frankly I hope yours are high. I’m not talking about your bosses expectations here. (You want to make sure you keep your job) I’m talking about others’ expectations. We try so hard sometimes to please others. To be honest, it’s effort that will never be appreciated by certain people. Don’t be attached to the in-law who criticizes what you are wearing or how you’ve decorated your home. They don’t like your cooking?… tough. Hey, let it go. Enjoy yourself and your family and care less about others’ expectations.
Perform a random act of kindness
It’s the little things. Open a door for someone or pay the toll for the guy behind you. It’s the little things that put smiles on people’s faces.
Acknowledge your staff/friends
Your support systems… whether you are at work or in the arms of a consoling friend are paramount to your successes. Let them know how much they are appreciated.
Buy yourself something special
What the heck… you deserve it. Be nice to yourself. Go get a new pair of shoes or a manicure.
Fix that thing that needs fixing
The gate that won’t latch, the watch that stopped or the smoke detector that has a dead battery… fix it.
Drink more water
You know why… it’s good for you. Never enough water. Drink up.
Have a family dinner
I’m not taking about all of you in the car at the same time as you go through the drive through. I’m not talking about one kid in the living room eating one thing, while the other kid is in the bedroom eating something else, while you are eating… standing in the kitchen. I’m talking about, once a week, family together, at one table, at the same time, enjoying a meal together. And dare I say it… no cell phones.
Make the effort to remember my name
You know how you meet me at a holiday get together? I come up, extend my hand and say, “Hi, I’m Terry… nice to meet you.” And then one minute later you have no idea what my name is. Let’s get better at this one.
Leave a little earlier and be on time
“Oh, but I’m just a late person.” No you’re not, you’re just rude. Don’t make people wait… be on time.
Make that doctor appointment
You the one you are supposed to make when you are 40? 50? Or just because there is a funny looking spot on your shoulder… make the appointment.
Exercise
Take the stairs. Walk instead of ride. It’s easy to make excuses. Stop!
Schedule a seminar
Could be a motivational topic. Perhaps something on financial planning for the future. Maybe a church retreat. Schedule it.
Do the right thing
We all have that opportunity stare us in the face. No one is looking. Who would know? Do the right thing… consciously.
Use less fuel
Ride a bike, shower more quickly. Put on a sweater and turn down the heater. It all adds up.
Make a duplicate set of keys
One of the best time management things I have ever done. Make a duplicate set of keys. Can’t find your keys? Grab the spare set and be on time.
Don’t over spend
We all want to participate in the spirit of giving this time of year. If you don’t have the money, don’t spend it. You don’t need to increase your revolving debt for me. There is nothing worse than getting through the holiday season only to be left with a spending hangover. A nice batch of homemade cookies or a nice card will be just as appreciated. And if your little ones don’t understand that concept, perhaps you need to educate them on financial realities.
Pray
The power of prayer is immense. Spend more time with your higher power, whoever they may be. Faith is one of the greatest things in this universe. Hope is restored to those who look to their faith. The world is a better place when we are in regular communication with those we love and with those who love us. Prayer is a mighty thing… but only if you practice it.
I hope you can use this checklist. Have a great weekend!
