Monthly Motto

It is common at the beginning of a year to make resolutions about changes that you want to make.  You may have focus and determination at the beginning, but a year is a long time.  Sometimes you can become discouraged when distractions and circumstances prevent you from working on your resolutions.  Instead of planning what you want to do for the year, consider what you can accomplish in a month.  Decide on a motto for each month.  A definition of a motto is a short expression of a guiding principle.  It doesn't have to be something big.  It can be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator.  You might give time or money to charity.  If you cannot think of a monthly motto, you may want to adopt one or more from the following list.

1. Better Time Management
• Don't hit the snooze button on the alarm clock.  Take advantage of every waking moment.
• Make priority lists, not "to do" lists.  You can't do everything at once.  Decide what is most important.
• Know the difference between accountability and responsibility.  Don't be afraid to delegate tasks. 
2. Reduce Clutter
• Clean out your closets.  Use your space effectively and efficiently.
• Shred documentation that is no longer needed.  Protect your identity.
• Leave room on your calendar for you.  Don't schedule every minute to benefit someone else.
3. Preventive Maintenance
• Body - Schedule regular medical and dental appointments.
• Auto - Get oil changes, tune-ups, tire rotations, alignments, and other services as recommended for your vehicle.
• Home - Take care of your roof, water heater, HVAC system, and other core components of your home.
4. Favorable Impressions
• Greetings - Greet people in a way that makes them glad that they saw you.  It could be a warm smile, a firm hand shake, or a sincere expression of pleasure to see them.
• Attention - Pay attention when others are speaking.  Ask follow up questions that reference something that was said. 
• Consideration - Be considerate of others.  Saying "please" and "thank you" is always appropriate. 
5. Learning and Development
• Reading - Make a reading appointment with an article or book on a topic that will help you.
• Practicing - In order to perfect something, you need to do it repeatedly.  Athletes, performers, doctors, and lawyers practice continuously.  Success requires repetition.
• Listening - There are lessons to be learned from those that succeeded, those still trying to make it, and those that failed.  Listen to what did and did not work for them.    

Leave a comment and share your motto for this month.