In December we set some goals and throughout January, we’ve been adjusting, revising and getting really clear on those goals. Now it’s time to solidify an action plan, envision the year ahead and take the opportunity to plan out your path for success!  There are many questions to ask yourself, a lot of months to plan for and now is the time. So let’s get started, shall we?

1. Break the year into small sections

I like breaking down the year into quarters or even months, which is another great way to implement the Kaizen-Muse small steps method I talked about in my last post. By dividing your year into smaller increments, you will feel more in control of the steps you’re taking to achieve your goals.  Checking things off your to-do list will help build momentum and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed.

Once you decide how many parts of the year you’re going to plan for, you’ll be ready to start plugging in your actual deadlines and deliverables.  Next, you’ll want to consider what you need to be successful in accomplishing those things.  Do you need structure, to help with keeping a busy schedule or juggling multiple projects? Or do you need to give yourself permission for more downtime? Perhaps you need some more support from friends and family, or maybe even a business coach to help with accountability.

Then, it’s important to ask yourself “What do I feel is holding me back from reaching my full potential?”  Be honest.  For example, you might know that you have a hard time taking breaks and you shy away from finding time to decompress.  By being honest with what you need upfront, you can build in time to step away and avoid feeling guilty about needing to make the time later. This will serve you well, not just as a creative but as a human, and that is really important when you’re looking to maximize your productivity and avoid burnout.

Ultimately, the only person able to hold yourself accountable and fight for what you want is YOU.

You have to be your own Bodyguard. I have a Kaizen-Muse Creativity Coaching favorite called the Bodyguard Meditation that you can check out on my Instagram @esma_kirim. This meditation is all about re-instilling your conviction to your creative passion and unapologetically devoting your time to whatever that is for you. Take a few minutes out of your day and try it out.

2. Lean on your support system

One of the most important foundations of my creative life is my support system. My family and friends have always been so important to me, especially throughout my creative journey. My “people” support and encourage me, hold me accountable, inspire me, and most importantly, keep me sane.

My support system includes a group of creatives. We support each other’s work, give each other positive feedback and encouragement, and hold each other accountable because we truly believe in each other. Having this amazing group of people has been transformative for me and my creative journey. 

(If that sounds like something that would interest you, I would love to invite you to check out my FB group The Brave Space to take part in a creative focus group with other creatives around the world!)

3. Go for it- right now!

This is your friendly reminder to just go for it! It’s so easy for us to get carried away by the hustle and bustle of our day to day lives and forget that we need to indulge our inner whims. Following these whims lets us break free from the stagnancy we sometimes feel in our lives and gives us a chance to really connect with ourselves again. 

Is there something you’ve always wanted to do but have been too nervous to actually do it? Well, today’s the day. Sometimes I find myself stuck in this place and I need to give myself a little extra encouragement and love. Give yourself that love right now. Start that thing you’ve always wanted to do simply for yourself. Take out the stress and pressure that comes along with meeting a deadline, prepping for an audition, etc. There doesn’t need to be a reason behind it. Just do it for YOU.  Give yourself this freedom & permission today.

With so much of the year waiting to be met with our creativity and resolve, I hope you find yourself feeling prepared to achieve your goals.  Remember that small steps are your friend, your support system is essential, and that YOU are worthy of indulging in your own creative fancy any time it feels right (but especially today – I mean it, go for it, right now). 

I want to hear what you’re most ready to tackle this year.  Is there anything you need help with? Let me know that too.