As the year comes to an end and we think about making resolutions, I believe it is wise to categorize them. The goal is to honestly assess the year past and plan for the year ahead - 2015. Women in business should think about what worked and what didn't and what they can do about it. 
Our lives, particularly women, are made up of more than work and play. Although I don't care for the word 'balance' we have to admit that when our lives are completely out of kilter, we are more susceptible to illness and depression. In my experience, it is important to create a plan for each segment of life in order to bring harmony to all.
So, the first resolution is to determine what worked and didn't work in 2014. Take a look at the circle and find the area or areas that you didn't find satisfaction. It doesn't matter how you score yourself only that you do it. You know in your heart and in your gut what category is lacking. As they say, "All work and no play make Sally a dull girl", however, perhaps being dull isn't your biggest problem.
Resolution two: Create a plan to change your behavior and attitude in the year ahead to find harmony in your life. Now, if you have just started a business or even started a new job, you can give yourself some slack for putting yourself in the moment while necessary. It is the same if you gave birth this year. You MUST take extra time for family.
However, there are some segments of your life that can't be ignore such as your physical and your mental health. As an added bonus create a plan for your spiritual self as well. The older I get the more I find it necessary to take time for reflection - it helps me connect with my spirit.
Few women in business, without financial problems, choose to take a close look at their finances. Just because you are paying your bills and money doesn't seem to be a problem, it is critical for your future to identify where good money is being wasted which could be put to better use later in your life. (Retirement is always closer than you think). If you are paying interest on any bills that could be paid off, purchasing coffee daily, never packing your lunch, and shopping for relaxation when what you really need is a nap - then you are jeopardizing your financial future! Seriously, the time to save money is NOW while you are making it. Promise yourself to make at least one change in your budget and watch how quickly savings can accumulate.
Speaking of paying it forward, there is no better way than to get involved in your community. Volunteer to participate in your community. If you have to ask where, I suggest going online and putting in the name of your town and volunteering. Your real problem will be holding yourself back from all the opportunities available.
Resolution three: Create your plan for the year and be prepared to start next week. Be mindful that you can be and do whatever it is you choose. This is your 2015 plan and the goal is to make changes that allow you to be a better you than in 2014.
Statistically 45% of people make New Year's Resolutions, yet less than 10% keep them. If you follow the link provided here you will be able to track your success with the stats of others.
The fact is changing the year is the perfect time to change behavior in your physical, mental, professional, community, family, and spiritual life. It is important to reach out for support, however, and support others in their quest for change. Be kind to yourself and know that the most important person in your world is you and only you can make the changes necessary to be the best you can be.


