It’s sometimes difficult to believe how each year seems to fly by a little quicker than the last. It is already 2013 and we are already fast-approaching the end of the first month. In this day and age we all lead busy lives – we try to fill each day with as much as possible and before we know it weeks and months have passed.
During January it is common for us to reflect on the year gone by. We often ask ourselves if we reached goals or if we achieved anything spectacular. It can also be a good time to ask yourself if you would like to make any changes to your life.
Before you know it, it will be 2015. It’s a scary thought, however you should start to plan the year – even if it’s just a rough outlines, so you can stay ahead. If you haven’t already invested in a yearly planner, now is the time to do it. Start simple with any major events or holidays you or the family have planned. Yes, things will change, but you need to start somewhere.
During this planning phase ask yourself what needs to change in 2014. What worked in 2013 and can you use it again for 2014? If 2013 wasn’t the best year, what needs to change? Once you have established things which both worked and didn’t, you can create a mini action plan to get started. If you found time management worked well, use those same skills this year. On the contrary, if you need to work on budgeting, why not start to reach budgeting tips or even contact a financial advisor to give you some help.
Organisational skills are a vital life lesson and very often we have to learn these skills ourselves once we leave school. If you find it difficult to be organised observe those around you and see what works for them. Ask friends, colleagues and family how they keep themselves organised and you might find a solution which works for you. Keep in mind that everyone is different and so you might have to try several options before finding the right one.
Keep in mind you can have the most effective plan however if you do not stick to it you won’t see any results. The year is yearly so start developing good habits which will not only last you the rest of the year, but for the rest of your life.
