Today's guest post is by motivational keynote speaker and productivity expert Neen James.
It’s a bit mind-boggling to realize that it’s already the fourth quarter of the year. Remember all those promises and resolutions you made back in January? It’s time to check in. Are you on track? Off track? Still trying to find your running shoes?
Finishing strong is a passion of mine. It’s my personal mantra. It’s even the name of one of my Pinterest boards! (Go figure.) It’s about digging in and making the most of every minute, isn’t it? Not boo-hooing over what’s not done or not in your control, but celebrating where you are and what you can get done with the time left in the year—when you stay focused on what’s in front of you.
This is the time of year when my corporate event clients ask me for some real-world, really actionable ways to help their team members finish strong. Sure, they usually mean to help folks refocus on financial targets and activities that will help people achieve their goals, which is great, and I certainly do have lots of advice. But for today, let’s talk about finishing strong personally as well. What does that look like to you?
To me, it’s about celebrating physical and mental strength, the kind that excites you to hop out of bed every morning and stay at it. If you want to absolutely grab the most from this quarter, then tap into these three power strategies that will help you feel amazing and focus your attention on what really matters to you:
1. Invest 15 minutes. I know, I always say that. But it works. Each day, invest 15 minutes in yourself—what that looks like is up to you. Meditation for mental strength. A walk after dinner with a loved one for a great exercise/connection combo. Making 10-minute calls with a mentor or team member with a five-minute “download” to stay close to the goals. The practice is personal to you; just make sure you are putting yourself on the to-do list every day for 15 minutes. It’s a smart investment for a healthier, happier, more successful you, I promise.
2. Love the way you move. Exercise—ugh, right? I admit, it used to be at the bottom of my list too (and I know some of you out there are thinking, “Hey, sweater weather!”) Here’s the trick though: find something you love. Don’t roll your eyes—there is always something. I discovered running a few years ago and now I’m hooked. Then I caught wind of Barre3 and became addicted. I don’t mind insanely early morning classes or long weekend runs because it’s something I love to do. Find what you love to do that will get your body moving.
3. Make it happen. Right there. In your calendar. You know the one, with the doctor’s appointments and client meetings and super-important, can’t-miss stuff? Put your time down as a solid must-do because the truth is, if you don’t make an appointment with yourself, you are likely to cancel.
Need accountability? Hire a coach. I have a running coach who I meet twice a week. It gets me out of bed in the dark, and when I have completed in my workout, I have no regrets. Look at it this way: You are the only you that you have. That your family has. And your partner. And your business. Want to lead a long, full, happy, and successful life? Don’t neglect the one person you’re going to spend every moment with: You. Prioritize yourself.
That’s it. Three little things. They might not seem so little initially. They might feel a little out of your comfort level. And honestly? They might feel a little selfish. Let’s clear that up. Self-care? Self-focus? Self-prioritizing? Those are all smart business. These are the keys to being a better parent, planner, partner, and person. When we take care of ourselves, we’re better equipped to take care of the rest of our worlds. So what do you say? Ready to finish strong?
Want more ideas on how to finish the last quarter strong? You might like this video and blog, not to mention this video Neen posted on face-to-face not long ago.
