Originally posted on the USAA Spouse Community Blog:
It’s Okay to Look Back Before Looking Forward by Wendy Poling
On New Years Eve I hope to be on top of a snow-capped mountain, nestled into a cozy cabin surrounded by loved ones. This year marks the first time in as many as I can remember that my husband actually has holiday leave. We are renting an SUV and driving to a ski resort, stopping to see family along the way. One of things I can’t wait to do in between trying to learn to ski again is to take a brand new leather bound notebook and jot down my thoughts for 2013. I want to write down my successes, the goals that I reached and then also take a look at the ones I didn’t quite accomplish.
I also think it will be good to write down the goals accomplished that were not part of the original plan. I want to see if it was worth pursuing those new goals while sacrificing others. Taking a look back before looking forward is something that doesn’t come natural for me. My number one strength on the Strengths Finder scale is Achiever, so I’m not one for looking back…ever. However, I do believe that as I tackle 2014 I want to create some clarity so I might stay focused and less distracted when opportunities knock on my door. I know I need to be prepared to say “no” along the way in order to maintain a good work/life balance. If I’m not clear on my goals for the New Year I’m afraid I’ll be overbooked and stressed out!