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Turbo charge 2011: disconnect to reconnect
Do you want to turbo-charge 2011 with boosted confidence, clearer vision, and an enhanced ability to lead? Then consider setting aside time to disconnect from all the other demands on your attention, and reconnect with yourself.
One of the side effects of modernity is that we have our attention pulled in many directions all at once. We are inundated with text messages and emails, the day-to-day requirements of a job or education, friends inviting us to attend this party or that concert, and the omnipresent buzz of the economy, the media, and pop-culture.
With so much stimulation it is easy to disconnect from yourself. In fact, many people do so without realizing it (I know this has happened to me before).
This is not good. Knowing yourself is the foundation of a satisfying life. It is also the critical first step towards becoming an exceptional leader. If your vision is not clear, how can you ever expect people to follow you?
Fortunately reconnecting to yourself is not difficult; it just takes a bit of time and focus. Begin by scheduling a few hours just for yourself, a time when you will not be distracted by other people or technology. Leave your cell phone at home and go someplace where you wont run into friends or acquaintances. Personally, I like to go to a coffee shop with dim lighting and soft music. Others find it helpful to go on a hike or nature walk.
Once you have created an environment where you will not be distracted, interview yourself. Ask yourself questions designed to cut through the static of modernity.
Questions like:
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What made me happy this year?
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What did I do really well this year?
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What could I have done better?
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What was the most important thing I learned this year?
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What three things am I really passionate about?
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What has been stressing me out recently?
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What do I want to accomplish next year?
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How am I going to accomplish this?
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What are my dreams?
The key is to be honest. I suggest writing the answers down on paper. Doing this moves the ideas from your head and into a physical form; it brings them into tangible reality. Some people prefer to use their computers as they can type more quickly than they can write. If you do this make sure that your wireless card is off and that other things on your computer will not distract you.
Taking the time to focus exclusively on you is critical for success.
As the new year rolls around, do yourself a favor. Instead of making a few token resolutions, set aside time to connect with yourself. Doing this will create a happier, more confident, and more successful 2011 for yourself, both as an individual and as a leader.
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