Where Are You Heading in 2011?

The start of a new year is the natural time to reflect on our progress. We evaluate our life goals and make resolutions to change. For most people; however, resolutions tend to last a few weeks and then ultimately fizzle out. Resolutions have failure built into them because consciously or unconsciously we expect them to be broken. Instead of making resolutions this year – let’s make realities! Why not create a strong vision for the changes you want to make and design the life you really want? You can do this through focused thought, imagination and intention. What type of life do you envision for yourself? What will make 2011 your most memorable year yet?

Take some time to really focus on your goals and visualize yourself achieving them. Make your visualization as real as possible. What sights and colors surround you? What sounds do you hear? Who is with you? What will it be like when you accomplish your goals? What emotions do you feel? How will your life be different?

Then consider the actions you need to take. What do you need to do to get what you want? What practices can you incorporate into your daily routine to keep you energized and alive? What supports need to be in place and what resources will you use to stay focused and on target? Eventually, by holding to your vision and taking the right actions, your new reality will start to unfold and your life will change in ways you never thought possible.

One of the ways to remain accountable to your goals is by hiring a Life Coach.

Here are the top 7 reasons to hire a life coach:

1. Builds confidence - You know you’re partnering with a trained professional to attain your goals.

2. Guided plan - Sure, you can draft a plan by yourself, but when you write out your plans with a coach, you know you’re developing a realistic plan that works! Your coach will also keep you accountable to your goals.

3. Conflicts - Coaches can explore current conflicts and tensions that you may be struggling with in your life. They can also assist you in finding ways to avoid similar situations in the future.

4. Personal attention - Coaching allows you to get one on one attention so you can be personally supported along your chosen path.

5. Dealing with challenges - Things will not always go according to plan. When you hit a snag, your coach can work with you to overcome the challenge and steer you back on track.

6. Versatility - You can decide how you’d like to use your coach. Do you want to focus on short-term goals or long-term goals? Perhaps you’d like both.

7. Enthusiasm - Your coach likely has a great deal of enthusiasm for their work, which will naturally rub off on you. Sometimes it may be difficult to keep up your drive, but thankfully, inspiration is one of the main reasons why coaches exist.