Feature Story Continued

New Year's Resolutions: Inside or Outside Cues?
by Dr. Dorene Lehavi Ph.D.
© Copyright 2006

Outside Cues

Here are some of the pitfalls of making comparisons rather than concentrating on and building your own uniqueness: Do any apply to you?

• You make resolutions you won't keep.
• You choose the wrong job.
• You choose the wrong friends.
• You ignore your best talents.
• You overlook the best people to be your friends.
• You don't show your true self.
• You don't know your true self.
• You put yourself down all the time for your so-called "failures".
• You take no pride in your accomplishments.
• You don't even recognize when you've accomplished something.
• You spend money you don't have.
• You hide.
• You face each new day as a drudge.
• You have a lot of stress and your overall health is compromised.
• You feel like a phony.
• You compromise your values.

Inside Cues

• You choose the job you love.
• Your friends are loving and supportive and know you.
• You enrich each other.
• You value your true self, your dreams, your talents, your strengths.
• You value your uniqueness and don't try to impress or copy others.
• You acknowledge your accomplishments daily, big and small.
• You find ways every day to enjoy yourself.
• You have peace of mind.
• You rise to life's challenges and don't ask "why me?"
• You are proud of yourself.
• You don't look outside of yourself for happiness.
• You count your blessings and feel grateful for all you have.
• You anticipate each new day.

Okay, I think you get the message. From which vantage point would you prefer to design your New Year's Resolutions, inside or outside cues? One sets you up for failure and will keep your self-esteem low. The other will enrich your life, your self-knowledge, and continue to keep you on the path of self-fulfillment and growth. Have a beautiful year and discover the beauty in yourself.

To Your Success,

Dr. Dorene Lehavi, Ph.D.,
Master Coach