Ida from Spark!

5 tips for recommitting to yourself in 2023

Illustration: driving in car on road with sign saying welcome to 2023. Small sign saying 2022 can be seen in side mirror.
Sometimes it feels like the same thing happens every year. The clock strikes midnight, +1 to the year, we set ourselves a “New Year's Resolution,” and we’re lucky if we make it halfway to March before it just sort of fizzles out. What a bummer!

That’s why this year, we’re issuing you—yes, you—a challenge. Instead of a New Year’s Resolution, we want you to ask yourself, “How do I want to recommit to my life this year?” Whether it’s at work, at home, or on the ski hill, don’t think of it as a resolution. Focus your energy instead on recommitting to a specific part of your life.

What’s the difference, you might ask us? A resolution simply shows intent, it says “I want to do something.” A commitment is a responsibility, a dedication to doing that thing. That said, here are a few tips to help you narrow down your choices:

  1. Set specific, measurable goals: Instead of making vague resolutions like "I want to be more successful," try setting specific, measurable goals that you can work towards. For example, "I want to complete all my projects on time and within budget" or "I want to attend five training sessions this year."

  2. Focus on professional development: Make a plan to improve your skills and knowledge in your field. This could involve taking a specific course or certification program, attending local or regional conferences, or reading industry-specific books and articles. (Spark! offers professional development courses, reach out for more information!)

  3. Get organized: If you're constantly feeling overwhelmed at work, try setting a goal to get better organized. This could involve setting up a system for managing your tasks, creating a schedule to stay on top of your workload, or decluttering your workspace.

  4. Get more involved in your company: Whether volunteering for a committee or mentoring a new employee, taking on additional responsibilities can help you expand your professional network and positively impact your organization.

  5. Practice gratitude: It's easy to get caught up in the negatives of work, but taking a few moments each day to appreciate what you have can help you stay positive and motivated. Make a commitment to express gratitude to your colleagues or to write down one thing you're thankful for each day. (We do know gratitude is the gateway to joy.) 

At the end of the day, the key to success is to set specific, achievable goals and make a plan to achieve them. By taking the time to reflect on your professional goals and making a commitment to yourself, you can start on the right foot and set yourself up for success in the year ahead. Even better, you can do this any time of the year. New Year, or otherwise!
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