Christmas is a Time for Giving of Yourself

It seems every year, as Christmas approaches, I find myself being asked the same, old tired question... "So, what do you want for Christmas?" The truth is nothing. Well, at least nothing material. Oh, sure, I can always use a golf glove or a subscription to National Geographic. But, what I really want is more precious than anything material.

I'd simply like to enjoy a wonderful conversation with those I love. I'm sure I speak for many parents who never get enough holiday time with their kids. Or, for that matter, close friends and relatives. One of the greatest joys in life is to simply spend meaningful time with those you love.

So, this Christmas and Hanukkah,  give the gift of yourself and spend time with those people you love. It's the most precious gift of all.

Merry Christmas!

A Goal Setting Plan For Success in 2015

December is a good time of year to start thinking about your goals for next year.  I know it's difficult amid the chaos of the holiday season, but I like to steal away a few minutes each day during December to think about my goals for the new year. The fact is it gives me a huge advantage over my competition and allows me to "hit the ground running" on January 1st.

People who set goals typically outperform their competition. This is a fact. Did you know that only 37% of American adults say they set new goals at the beginning of each year. This means if you are a Goal Setter, you're in the top third of Americans who have a chance at success in the new year. After all, most people who don't set goals have no clear direction as to where they're going or how to get there. So, it stands to reason that Goal Setters are miles ahead of their competition.

Another key part of success is to share your goals with someone you trust -- someone who will encourage you onward to success. It's reported that 30% of American adults don't share their goals with anyone. I have found that when I talk about my goals with others, it reinforces my belief and determination. So, share your goals with people who will reinforce them.

I'm encouraged by the fact that 14% of Americans say they are making personal or spiritual changes in their life, while 13% are setting financial goals. This means more people are making the connection between personal growth and creating greater abundance in their lives.

Another important goal-setting area is Life Balance. Too often, after a speech, people will come up to me and say "I wish I had more time to spend with my kids, or travel, or sit on a beach and so forth..."
I always reply, "You have as much time as you need. The question is how do you choose to spend it?"
I've never known anyone who, on their death bed, wished they had spent more time on the job.

The truth is we make choices every day that lead us to greater fulfillment or greater frustration. So, this month, take some time to think about what really matters to you. What's important in your life? Then, set goals that move you in that direction.

I can guarantee that you will find greater happiness and fulfillment in life if you set worthy goals that bring you closer to your dreams.