Senator Wiger posted a nice article on his Senate site on December 22. As a student of success, and someone who is constantly challenging myself to improve, I appreciate his article. Here is an excerpt with some personal observations added.
What will you focus on in 2010? A recent article at successmagazine.com offers forty-four ideas on what you can do to “kick-start” your 2010. Here are some highlights from that list that could improve your year:
• Find a volunteer opportunity at www.volunteer.org.
MEJ - I volunteered for, and was appointed by the Maplewood City Council to the Maplewood Business and Economic Development Commission. I am looking forward to promoting economic opportunity in the great city of Maplewood.
• Sign up for a birthday/anniversary reminder service.
MEJ - I have kept every birthday and anniversary in my BlackBerry or PDA for over 10 years.
• Write a personal mission statement or mantra.
MEJ - This year's mission is to bring the citizens of Maplewood, Oakdale, North Saint Paul, and the rest of Minnesota an independent perspective on elections and service in state government.
• Get a whole new hairstyle or haircut.
MEJ - Well, I did promise my wife I would get haircuts more often this year. I tend to go too long between appointments, so just keeping my hair a consistant length will be a worthy goal.
• Do something that scares you.
MEJ - Most of my friends (Democrats, Republicans and Independents) think I should be scared of my State Senate race. I actually am excited by the challenge. I am scared of losing this race because of the prospect of continued partisan failure in Saint Paul and scared that I may let down the people who invest their time and effort in supporting my campaign. But at the end of the day, it is the fear of failure that drives me to work a bit harder and smarter to minimize the possibility.
• Take a dance or fitness class.
MEJ - I have scheduled a 10 month fitness regiment that consists of lots of walking and, well, lots of walking. I don't think door knocking and shaking hands can really be considered physical fitness.
• Schedule a regular date night on your calendar with your spouse.
MEJ - This hasn't been a challenge in the past, but with the rigors of a political campaign and launching a new city commission, this is a great idea for maintaining personal perspective and balance.
Remember, you cannot achieve all of your goals overnight. Many goals will take considerable time and effort, and they can evolve over time. Stay flexible, expect bumps along the way and above all, never give up.
As Ben Franklin once said, “Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each New Year find you a better man.” The New Year gives us all a chance to start over. Make 2010 a year to remember!
Now for a quotation that lies at the heart of my new year and my campaign:
"The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that our aim is too low and we reach it."
Michelangelo
