This article originally appeared in my 2006 Newsletter.  As I plan for 2010 and take some time reflect on 2009, I realize that even three years later, these words are still relevant. The article has been edited appropriately.

I love this time of year. Christmas lights, holiday parties, fires in the fireplace and a creamy hot chocolate bring lots of warm feelings during this otherwise chilly month.  I also love that as the year comes to a close, I have a chance to reflect on all that has happened.  As I think back to the start of the year, I realize that for me, this was a year of evolution.  My business evolved,  my thought process evolved, and I took many steps out of my usual comfort zone into an adventure of the unknown.

Have you thought about what 2009 has meant for you?

Before you rush off hoping that 2010 will be “better” take some time to reflect on all that happened for you in 2009.  Perhaps you saw all of your dreams come to life, or maybe you didn’t.  Take some time to think about the events that took place but also consider the role you played in the outcome.  Whatever the case may be, learn from those experiences to create a plan for a richer life in 2010.

Today I leave you with the challenge of self-reflection.  Spend just enough time to appreciate what you have accomplished, and create a plan for moving forward in 2010.

Questions to ponder during your reflection:

• How did you take care of yourself? Taking care of yourself physically, emotionally and spiritually is necessary for feeling good. The more you take care of your needs, the more you will have to offer others.
• What goals did you accomplish? Writing down your goals is one way to make your thoughts and desires real. Plus it’s fun to go back and read what you wrote and then say “Wow, that really happened!”
• How did you celebrate your successes? No matter how big or small your accomplishments, be sure to celebrate each one.  Recognizing your accomplishments will not only keep you motivated, it will keep the momentum going as well.
• How did you grow personally and professionally? Even as adults, we grow and evolve.  Challenge yourself, learn something about yourself, and realize what you are capable of achieving the goals that are important to you.
• Which areas of your life could be richer? Concentrating on what you want rather than what you don’t want is the best way to focus your energy.  When you focus on what you don’t want, you are actually attracting that which you don’t want.  For example, instead of saying, “No more debt in 2010”, focus on saying, “Make more money in 2010”.

Once you’ve gone through this exercise of reflection you can start to think about all that you want out of 2010.  Write it down and make it real. I’m in the process of doing this and will share my accomplishments and plans for 2010 soon.

What is in store for you in 2010?  What can you celebrate from 2009?  Share below and we’ll all celebrate together!