Connect with Your Compass in 2010

It is hard to believe that we are just six days away from Christmas Eve. My Christmas Playbook is a constant companion this time of year. Every Christmas season I take out my Christmas Playbook and keep it front and center throughout the season. Inside, I list my shopping lists, my guest list, my to-do’s and so on. I record what I’ve purchased and for whom, and what cookies I will bake. I make a note of what hasn’t worked in the past and ideas for improvement. Once I fill up a notebook I start a new one. It’s a Christmas journal and it is my compass. It is my touchstone when I begin to feel overwhelmed by the season.

This year I’ve had the privilege of working with a company that provides this kind of support to women year round. Compass is a personal development company committed to improving the lives of women - and it is the gift I’ve given myself this year. I’m always looking for ways to “do life better”. If there is an easier and faster way to mop my kitchen floor I will find it. But what I am truly committed to is becoming the best person I can become, and there are no shortcuts on this journey. I’ve looked everywhere. I’ve read hundreds of books, attended many seminars and became a professional life coach along the way. I don’t regret one second of my journey.

The most important lesson I’ve learned is that it isn’t what you know but what you do with that knowledge that makes the difference. Compass has become my accountability partner, my source for inspiration and empowerment, and keeps me connected to what is most important to me. I receive an e-mail everyday that reminds me to listen to something called a MAP (monthly action plan). The MAP is a series of audio files that guides and coaches me through a monthly topic of my choice. It takes less than 10 minutes a day to listen to the MAP and make notes in my workbook. This month I have chosen to listen to the Spirit MAP called “Live From the Heart”. I highly recommend it!

While this year has brought a mixture of sadness and joy to my life, I feel centered and strong. I’ve made room in my life for amazing and supportive friendships, and I am reminded everyday to hold the space in my life for what really matters to me.

Whether you are a part of a company like Compass or not, this is a simple reminder that it is the small consistent actions taken overtime that have the power to transform lives. As the new year approaches, take some time to think about what you really want for your life in 2010. You have a compass called your authentic voice, and it is a powerful tool. You can create a map for yourself by designing a plan and reviewing it on a regular basis. Connect with a friend, a family member, a coach or someone else who can act as your accountability partner. Learn more about Compass at www.mylifecompass.com/coachvickiz. Remember, this is your life and YOU are worth it.

Now follow-up and enjoy your sweet victories.

Make This Christmas Shine

The end of the week is here and Christmas is only 14 days away. How will you spend your follow-up Friday? Perhaps you have an office party to attend, or shopping to do. You may have a massive to-do list in front of you right now. Even though you are busy, take a moment to reconnect with your purpose for celebrating Christmas. Is this season important to you? How do you want to celebrate it? It is easy to get caught up in the feelings of overwhelm, and we all will from time to time. Just remember to take a deep breath and reconnect to your reasons for celebrating. There is still time to make this Christmas shine. Now follow-up and enjoy your sweet victories.

Small Changes

Years ago when I first heard Thomas Leonard speak of personal environments and the idea that my life could be designed to create more joy and energy, I set a very simple goal for myself. I decided to improve my relationship with the alarm clock.
At the time I was raising my young family while working at a job I didn’t like. Each morning at the sound of the alarm clock, the knot in my stomach began to form and the only thing I was thankful for was the snooze button. Things are different now.

I look forward to getting up in the morning, I even get up earlier these days. Some days my “perkiness” actually irritates my teenage daughter. Many things have changed in my life but there is one very simple change that has made all the difference. I changed the sound of my alarm from a jolting buzz to a very sweet medley that softly greets me at 6:15 every morning and warms my heart. By making one simple change in my environment, I experience more joy and energy. I have made friends with my alarm clock.

Today, follow-up on those incomplete projects and unfinished to-dos, and remember that the small changes sometimes make the biggest difference.