Good Year or Bad-It's up to You: 2008 A Look Back - 2009 A Look Ahead

Another year has come and gone and if you are reading this you have obviously survived the year's challenges. However, I trust you more than just survived; I hope you actually thrived.

We all face challenges and opportunities and it is important to keep in mind that it isn't what happens to us- rather it is how we react to what happens to us that makes the difference. Any issue creates two reactions: positive or negative. It's our choice. Successful people usually react positively and unsuccessful people usually react negatively to the exact same situations.

I once knew a person who had such a bad attitude that, had he won one million dollars in the lottery, he wouldn't have been able to celebrate the win-he would have moaned about the taxes due.

Having an optimistic outlook regarding difficult situations can help us find solutions to problems. Those with a negative attitude look for where to place the blame rather than searching for a solution.

Looking Back
Let's review some of the issues we had to deal with in 2008:

Now here's the truth: most of us couldn't affect any of the above issues, so why worry about them? Instead, find something positive in each issue, such as reading versus watching television, walking instead of driving, or deciding to pursue a new career, etc.

Looking Ahead
So what issues may we face in 2009? Although I'm not psychic, there are a few predictions I feel comfortable stating here:

A Positive Mindset
Keep in mind it's not what happens in 2009 but how we react to what happens that makes the difference. Here are some possible positive outcomes:

You can say the glass is half full or half empty but if you just want to sit around and complain, then get out of the way of people who are adapting to situations and turning them into positive solutions. May 2009 be your best year yet!
 
Dave Jakielo, CHBME, is an international speaker, consultant, executive coach, and author, and is president of Seminars & Consulting. Dave is past president of Healthcare Billing and Management Association and the National Speakers Association Pittsburgh Chapter. Sign up for his FREE weekly Success Tips at www.Davespeaks.com. Dave can be reached via email Dave@Davespeaks.com; phone 412/921-0976.