5 things to do when you're putting up with stuff at work . . . .

At the beginning of the year I'd like to offer some tips and techniques for starting off 2005 better than maybe you ended 2004.

Things do build up at work and it is tempting to hang on till the end of the year in the misguided belief that next year will be better. I say misguided cos we are often lulled into a sense that all the stuff going down at the end of the year was because of end of year stress, silly season phenomena or a whole manner of other really good reasons that at the time meant we did not have to do anything different. It did however help to explain the anxiety/stress/pressure we felt at the time, so we battled on till the end of the year, then thought ~ phew, another year over.

Now, it is moment-of-truth time. By the time you read this you will be at least 6 weeks into the New Year. So how is it all going ?? If you are on a roll, then take a bow. The pressures of last year will be but a distant memory, you'll be very happy with how things are going this year and you'll be confidant and positive about the challenges coming up. It is a great feeling. You have made the shift and can probably turn the page.

If on the other hand, you are thinking, here we go again, same old same old, then here are a 5 little ideas to get you taking a different tack.

•  Acknowledge that if things are to change it is completely up to YOU . This means that every single thought you have about how much it is someone's else's fault needs to be replaced by your ideas about what YOU can do differently. Although it is tempting to think that it is all about the other person, it is never all about them.

•  Take yourself more seriously . I notice people all the time putting up with stuff that has them not be their best. They cope and struggle and dance around things that are not serving them well. How about deciding to stop tolerating and think about what other options you have. You deserve better ~ and there are always other options although they may not appear obvious. And . . . if you find this one hard, re-read point 1 above.

•  Look after yourself very very well. It is not hard to work 60 hours a week and suffer in silence. Being the martyr ain't that hard, and libraries are full of people doing just that. The tougher thing is to step aside from that self-destructive racket and find a healthier way. Decide now that you are worth more.

•  Start from where you are. Anything you do this week to get things back on track will make next week seem better. Whatever the challenge you need to always start from where you are. Thinking about ~ If only . . . . or . . . I should have . . . . or Why didn't I . . . .is just keeping you procrastinating. Stay there, and you will be still there at the end of March or June or December. We each are a work in progress, so what progress do you want to make this week or this day or this hour ?

•  Get real clear on what you want to be different. If you don't know where you are going, then any road will get you there, so get crystal clear on what 2005 holds for you.

What do you want to be proud of by the end of the year. Draw up a "map". Decide on your "destination" and then plan the possible paths to get there.

And take heart. This is not the easiest thing to do - but it can be done, one day at a time and one decision at a time. I help people in this way every day. If you are ready, then results are guaranteed. Call me now and see if I can help you.