Here are some tips on how to be more mindful in the new year:

   – Start each day by thinking about things and people in your life for which you are Thankful.

   – While still in bed, think or say these words:  “This is the day the Lord has made.  I will rejoice and be glad in it!”  Also: “I am not promised my next breath!”

     Doing these steps will improve your attitude immediately, and will start your mind on a positive note.  It will also help you to be purposeful about your day, since these words remind you that each day could be your last.

   – Read your Life Goals out loud daily.

   – Take the time for self-reflection in your morning routine.  Pray or meditate..  Set your alarm clock back to make this time in your daily routine if needed.

   – Surround yourself with reminders of your Life Goals.  Focus on pictures or other reminders that deal with WHY you want to accomplish your goals.  (Example: a picture of your family with whom you want to spend time water skiing – NOT a picture of the new boat)

   – When stressed, remember that you can only do one thing at a time.  As I wrote in my book SubmUrgency: How to Live – and Die – Without Regret, I would get stressed to the point of crying when I was running a family business for my three older siblings.  When that would occur, I would go to the men’s room, lock the door, hold up one finger, and tell myself in the mirror to go back and focus on doing one thing, as that is all I could do anyway.  It always helped me to stay centered, while still being productive.

   – Before going to sleep, think about your Life Goals: not just what they are, but see yourself with your family water skiing behind that new boat.  Your subconscious mind will think about your Life Goals throughout the night.

     In his timeless classic The Strangest Secret, the late Earl Nightingale said that we become what we think about all the time.  When you start your day – and end your day – thinking about your Life Goals, and surround yourself throughout the day (on your bathroom mirror, in your car, at your office, in your home) with reminders about WHY you want to accomplish these goals, you will greatly improve your chances of success.

    Go make 2019 your best year ever!