Write an Annual Report on the Business of Your Life
By Steve Kaye
Every major business prepares one.
How about you?
That is, do you prepare an annual report on your life?
Why?
Because it keeps a record of what you did and what happened. Because it will make you think about what you want to do with the next year. And because it will help you make plans so that you can achieve the success that you dream about.
All in all, it's a powerful planning tool.
Here are five areas to include:
1) What are the highlights of your personal life during the past year? What special events occurred? What did you accomplish? Describe both good and bad things: you want to write more than a fluffy holiday update.
2) What happened in your business (or your job)? What did you accomplish? What value did you add? How did you improve? What changes did you make? What changes occurred and how did you handle them. This should include a financial report of profit and loss, even if you earn a salary.
3) What did you buy, sell, or lease? Why did you choose it? What else did you consider? Record serial numbers for reference. Use this to track capital expenditures for your income taxes or to monitor buying patterns.
4) What did you learn? What lessons, wisdom, and skills did you gain? Make a list of the best ideas that you collected. Describe how you used these ideas. If you don’t remember any, then start a wisdom log today for next year’s annual report.
5) What are your goals, strategies, and plans for next year? What is your vision for the year? Be candid. Be optimistic. Be realistic. Create a map for how you plan to get what you want during the next year. Then write a fantastic report next January on what you accomplished.
Best of success, as you realize your dreams.
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Steve Kaye helps leaders hold effective meetings. He is an IAF Certified Professional Facilitator, author, and speaker. His meeting facilitation and leadership workshops create success for everyone. Call 714-528-1300 for details. Visit http://www.stevekaye.com for a free report.