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With Thanksgiving having just recently passed and the year winding down, it is an opportune time to reflect back on the past eleven months and take inventory. Take some time to look back at those things which you have accomplished and be proud of them! Also take some time to think about those things that you were not able to accomplish to understand what didn't happen and why. As you assess goals that may not have been met, decide if they are still valid going into the next twelve months. If they are, make sure you write them down and put them in a place where you can regularly review them. If they are no longer valid, chunk them so you don't waste any more time on them.
This time of year also brings a renewed sense of excitement as you begin making plans for the upcoming year.
- What do you envision for next year?
- How will things be different?
- How will things be the same?
- What things will you want to change and improve upon?
- What new things will you introduce?
- How do you see growth taking place?
- What things will you want to reinforce to continue on a successful path?
- Most importantly, how committed are you?
As a leader, it is critical that you clearly communicate the vision to your organization (your company, department, team or family) and provide direction to them about how you expect to make this vision a reality. Put yourself in their shoes and think about what they would like to know from your vantage point in order to get on board your train. Explain what will be expected of them and how together you will accomplish those objectives set forth in this vision. Decide on a schedule where you can regularly review and discuss your organization's progress toward meeting these objectives and provide updates along the way that will demonstrate your commitment to walking the talk. Invite their participation and challenge them to provide input on ways to work together to achieve this vision.
We have all been involved at some point in our professional or personal lives where we "hear" the vision from our respective leaders, but how many of us can honestly say that we have experienced the vision because it did become a reality. Do you remember how great it felt when this happened? Do you remember how energized and inspired you became to be a part of this organization? Amazing what great leadership delivers!
What will you envision, plan for, communicate and deliver in 2006? | 
