The podcast that I often listen to, The Next Right Thing podcast (episode 108) suggested that most of us at this time of year fall into one of two camps:  people who prefer to look back, (reflect, learn and apply) vs people who prefer to look forward (create, plan and move on). Which do you tend to lean toward?

For me, I typically look back first.  I love to review, reflect, journal before moving forward. So, in honor of the new year and decade, I'd like to share a few things I learned from my recent look back:

1.  Most important accomplishments were about people:  Gratefully, 2019 was a big year.  Full of personal and professional milestones and accomplishments.  As I reviewed them, the two that stood out the most were celebrations for and with the people closest to me.  Once again reminding me that the most important and rewarding investment usually links to the people I care about the most.
2. Tendency to get sucked into doing vs creating: The second half the 2019 was extremely full, especially in the area of work for my company.  It required a demanding travel schedule that quickly reminded me of how easy it is for me to get sucked back into over working.  While I did a good job of planning for recovery after each trip, I neglected to set aside adequate time for future planning and creating. A good reminder and certainly will be incorporated for 2020.
3. Importance of integrating accomplishments:  This final point became clear as I look back over the past decade.  There was lots of activity and accomplishment full of highs and lows, excitement and doubt, which led to tremendous growth.  One of the most important things I learned is the how critical it is to integrate both learning AND accomplishments.  Most of us tend to do the former more than the later, but both are so important.  Acknowledging and integrating accomplishments ensures that I am playing at my best which in turn better supports those who I care most for and am honored to work with.  

As you look back and move forward, thank you for your support and encouragement and know that I am committed to do the same for you!

All the best in 2020 and beyond.