marathon_mThis post could have been written in the spring, the middle of the summer or in the fall. Your new year does not need to start after December 31st. Leaders decide when to take the initiative to restructure an existing plan or map out a new one.

Many of us have watched our family, friends or colleagues tackle their new year resolutions. We watch them sprint like they are running a 100 yard dash but their goals require the pace of a marathon.

1.Slow down and catch your breath. Ask yourself a few questions:
Do you have half-baked goals from the previous year?
Do you have a positive mindset?
Do you need to repair any fractured relationships?    Use past failures to fuel new endeavors.

2.Before running 5 miles attempt to run three.
Establish a baseline and reflect on what you have accomplished.
If necessary close out and clean up important goals/tasks before starting your new list.

3.Meditate before and during your run. Envision the finish line.
Hold a strategy meeting with yourself and/or your team to compile and prioritize your list. We must ensure the outcomes are achievable and specific. All parties involved should take the time to define and visualize success.

4.Track your milestones and time yourself.
Ensure the goals are measurable and compare the results to your baseline.
Do you need to pick up the pace, shorten your stride, adjust your breathing?
Don’t be discouraged if you are missing the mark. Regroup yourself and/or the team and make your adjustments during your run. We can’t control time but we can still cross the finish line.

5.Have a stretch goal. Don’t stop at 3 miles when you know you can run more.
If you don’t stretch yourself, you may get too comfortable, complacent and contented. If you don’t stretch yourself you will never reach your full potential. If possible, crush your goals!

You must have persistence through the resistance!

– Rod Sullivan