I used to make New Year’s Resolutions for alot of years, then I never kept them. I looked back on the previous year’s and realized my resolution would remain the same for the next year.

While I do not formally resolve to do any of the following in 2005, I will strive to be better at the following:

1. Focus On One Thing At A Time. Multi-tasking is largely overated. Just because we can, does not mean that we should. I talk alot about focusing on one thing at a time in my speeches and I continue to be a big offender of this myself. This means that when you are on the phone, talk on the phone, don’t answer your email simultaneously. When I have been able to focus on one thing at a time I have found there is incredible power and joy in it.

2. Responding More Thoroughly. I check my email and voice mail too often. I am praised for responding quickly by my clients and peers, but I also respond without much detail that sometimes leaves them scratching their heads. Checking your email 4 times an hour in a ten hour day means looking at it 40 times. Is anyting that critical? I need to exercise some restraint.

3. Take Things Less Personally. I get wrapped up in what I do 100%. Most of the things around us happen beyond our control. When people quit or people misrepresent what I say, I take it personally. Love people and what you do, but don’t hang your soul on it.

Thank you for all of your support in 2004. I deeply appreciate it.

I hope that you can look back at your year as I do and smile. I hope you can look ahead to 2005 with excited anticipation. There is something in the new year for all of us.