What's Your Theme?

We're a few days into January, and I'm enjoying a different approach to the new year this time. I spent years in a career focused heavily on KPIs, revenue, and goals that trickled down from annual to daily, even hourly, at times. I understand it from a business standpoint, but the practice bled over into my personal life due to the pressure to do what the rest of the team was doing. I was the only woman on a team of men whose personal goals looked very different from mine.

Outside of professional goals, they wanted things like boats, cars, bigger homes, and more expensive golf clubs. I wrote down things such as volunteering, downsizing my living space, reading more books, and getting published. The guys always humored me by listening when it was my turn to share. I never got the feeling they saw much value in my choices.

One thing that experience taught me is that no one views goals or resolutions the same. It may be that you were never taught how to set them or that a list of changes seems intimidating, so you never went through with it. It could also be that change feels scary.

If that's you, then I have something that may help. I recently learned of a gentler, less intimidating way to practice resolutions.

Instead of stressing out about a list of do's and don'ts, try choosing a theme for your year. One is enough, and two is fine; the most important thing is to keep it manageable.

One of the best things about this type of resolution is that it lasts all year, so there aren't any deadlines. You're simply living your theme.

What are some themes you can choose for your new year?

Communication - This can look like practicing active listening, asking more questions to understand others better, writing letters, or even participating in public speaking events.

Kindness - Round up your charges to the nearest dollar whenever possible, compliment one person a day, send care packages, help a neighbor with a task, or pay it forward in the drive-thru.

Frugality - Of course, there's always the tried and true practice of brown-bagging it instead of eating out, including your coffee (I don't recommend putting that in a bag, though!). Instead of splurging on new seasonal clothing items, hit the thrift stores and see what's available. Host a yard sale party where you and your guests display items that are no longer wanted and everyone gets to shop while having refreshments. Use the library all year instead of buying new books. There are a lot of ways to be frugal.

Brave - Be scared and do it anyway. Say yes to things you would ordinarily say no to. Buy the dress that you think is too fancy. Book the flight you've been on the fence about. Say the thing you've been holding in. Confront a fear. Leap.

You could live a theme of generosity, adventure, introspection, curiosity, boldness, or joy.

Whether you already possess the quality and desire to focus on it more or it's a brand new way of living, the theme method will surely make your year more rewarding.

What theme will you be living this year?