5 handy hints to ensure you end the year on a high

It has been a tough year for most with less than favorable economic conditions. Most people feel ready to just write 2009 off… I urge you to be different. As the year draws to a close, end on a high. Take the time to really review the positives which have arisen. At this point in time, most people look a little despondent, to here are 5 easy tips to help you:

1. Celebrate for the wins -’tis the festive season so as you celebrate Christmas and the new year, be sure to also be celebrating your wins and successes. It doesn’t have the be an expensive reward, what is important is that you are acknowledging that you have had success.

2. Reflect and review the year – reflect on the year and make a note your successes in 2009, no matter how big or small. Conduct an audit – what has occurred this year, what have you gained as a result? In tough times, we start to develop our soft skills: leadership, time management etc

3. Say thank you – acknowledge those around you and say thanks. Who has been instrumental in your success this year? Who will continue to be instrumental in 2010? The festive season is a great opportunity to take team members/staff/clients/ stakeholders for a drink to say thanks. It is also a great opportunity to lock in a time to meet early in 2010 as the pace picks up again. Having meetings booked early will ensure you are ahead of the pack!

4. Plan for achievement – start setting goals and objectives for 2010. Prepare a tool kit which will help you achieve these objectives. There is nothing worse than realizing half way through a year that you need to get on track.

5. Recognize what really matters – what really drives you? what really satisfies you? how can you get more of this next year? What is it that makes your work more enjoyable?