It always happens in January. We start a new year and budget for 2016 and even though we are in our 19th year of successful business, I remain paranoid. In the past it was stronger for me in the first quarter than other times of the year. My husband says I do this every year and should not worry. Last year we had our best year since 2008. Actually I am proud to say that my level of paranoia is quite diminished relative to other years and we did celebrate proudly at the close of the year.
As business owners it is totally natural to be suspicious or fearful of starting a new year with a steep ramp for projects and not knowing what is ahead. What we do know is that employment is up and more jobs are being filled than expected. We also know that these emotions feed our desire to succeed, try new things and be innovative. Yes, that is a win win for us worry warts. So, why am I paranoid?
Aside from reading the business section today proclaiming gloom and a "bad week for stocks which dims 2016 outlook," which I am trying to ignore, there is still that uncertainty on how our work will play out this year. The business climate is good, however, I see our clients managing intense amounts of work, stressed at times and resource constrained. Then, I remember what my dear friend and respected Professor, Jeremy Hunter, at the Drucker Institute says, "manage moment to moment and with intention." My intention this year is to enjoy the moments such as when;
Colleagues and friends are there for you when you have a problem or a happy moment to share
Laughing at myself more
Delighted clients with new hires say they appreciate our help or just simply when we help them by listening
Candidates thank us for keeping them informed (whether they get the job or not) or call to say they love their job
People we care about call for career game plan help
HRoundtable or Great Starts Breakfast conversations transform ideas into action
Stephan and I are able to try out new things like Argentine Tango and cycling trips; laugh and learn something new
What do you want your meaningful moments to be this year?
Enjoy the adventure of the unknown and if you also get paranoid, don't worry, it is natural and may contribute to your success this year in entirely surprising ways. Happy 2016.