Goals Time

It is time to review and update your goals. If that seems like a surprise it shouldn’t be. Many people seem to think the right time to work on goals is the start of a new year. But, I say why wait? And who said that we should do our goals once a year.

There is no doubt that every new year will bring something new -- I get that. But the new year is not the time start your life or to start realizing business success. We all know tomorrow is not promised, so why wait. The things you act on today will bring you closer to where you want to be tomorrow or in the new year.

So, here we are. We have 3 months left of 2009. Are you planning to cruise the rest of the year? What a waste. By the way, some people have the opinion that no one wants to start anything new at the end of the year. Don’t buy it. If you do, I suggest you stay home. Now is the time to push yourself, your associates and your team. Set your goals and get into action.

Is it time for vacation?

I am back from a wonderful vacation experience. Did you miss me? If you did, I apologize for my absence, but I must say taking time away from the normal to do something unusual is wonderful. I took my vacation to beautiful Morro Bay, California.

I kayaked the bay, peeked in on a Peregrine Falcon, hiked through Montana de Oro State Park and trekked up to San Simeon to tour the Hearst Castle. I even made a visit to the Saucelito Canyon Winery in San Luis Obispo. Yes, I was on a vacation. What made is truly special was the time spent with my family and friends.

Taking vacation is important. It can be great for your soul. It is a time to renew and refresh. It reminds me of the feeling I get each spring. That is when even old and familiar things seem new. If you are looking for a fresh new perspective for your business and your organization, I recommend a vacation.

Go away and turnoff the cell phone. Discipline yourself. Forget about email messages for at least 72 hours. You can do it! I know you can.

Labor Day Observances

Today is officially Labor Day. I am off to Morro Bay, California. What a beautiful and relaxing place to vacation. If you haven’t been there, I strongly recommend it.

What about Labor Day? It is a day to celebrate our collective productive energies. Since 1884, we have been celebrating Labor Day which has roots linked to the New York City Central Labor Union's first observance in 1883. For more than 100 years we have been observing Labor Day. And although it is not a time particularly for memorial, I hope you have fond memories from years past. If you don't, it is time to create a few special memories you will want to acknowledge for future observances.

What are you doing to recognize and celebrate? Whatever you do, I am sure I don't need to remind you tomorrow is a work day. So be sure to enjoy! As for me, I will be venturing out to do some kayaking this morning. After that, well… I’ll do whatever feels right.

Change vs. Transition

This week I had the pleasure of speaking to a group of local business professionals. My talk was on the topic of Change. Before launching into my presentation I asked the group what they hoped to learn from our discussion. A few had specific questions and most seemed curiously interested in what I might have to say. One question or thought offered from the group was about change, and knowing how and when transition occurs. You may be thinking Change and Transition… aren’t they the same. The answer is yes and no.

Change is about seizing control and Transition is all about the unique and specific steps or milestones one goes through to arrive at a different place. Change and Transition for sure are closely related. The thing they have in common is the presence of Tension. The bottom line is the degree of tension will always determine the pace of a Change or Transition. That is something to think about.