2013 Resolution for all Businesses – Keep those Energy, Optimism and Enthusiasm levels UP!

Ok – 2013 is here – and we’re now 5 years on from the major doom and gloom of the credit crunch.

And let me tell you – whilst the economic climate is by no means ‘booming’ – the sentiment of business people I have met over the past months is definitely far more positive.

I was privileged to be at the StartUp Business Awards in December – and what a refreshing ‘pick me up’ – that was. (Not that I personally need any pick me ups as I’m eternally optimistic).

I spoke to a number of business people, from all walks of life – and generally the sentiment was the same.

Business is good and people are excited and passionate about what the year ahead will bring.

I’ve written about this before, back in 2008 and 2010 – but I’m reiterating it again.  Because I believe it’s fundamentally important.

Optimism, passion and energy are really key fundamental success factors we need to personally harness as, when you think about it – it’s energy and enthusiasm that keeps us all going – the sense of purpose that motors us on.

So regardless as to whether you’re a business owner, budding entrepreneur or CEO – it’s important to remain passionate and positive  about business – and it’s hugely important to make time for yourself to restore those all important energy levels.

Focusing on the negative is a self fulfilling prophecy – therefore, my advice to self and others is to focus on spreading optimism.  After all – optimism is infectious.

Here’s my tried and test guide for helping you to combat the blues and stay positive, focused and energised throughout 2013.

1. Avoid the ‘energy vampires’.  You know who they are – the people that ‘suck’ the life out of you.   Avoid these ‘vampires’ as much as possible.  If you have to be around them be sure to counteract their negativity with positivity.  You’ll be amazed at how much better you feel.
2. Hang out with Energy  Boosters.  Counterbalance the ‘energy vampires’ by being around ‘energy boosters’. These are people that really excite and inspire you and get you enthused and positive about what you do.  They ooze energy and when ‘boosters’ get together – energy is shared – and it generates more energy so everyone comes away feeling ready for anything.  You know who these people are – so spend more time in their presence. And be sure to make time to find more ‘boosters’.  Attend the odd face to face networking event, go to seminars that interest you, book signings, lectures, webinars etc – go where the people who influence or inspire you are – and get immersed.
3. Get fit – physically (and mentally).   Just how much better do you feel when you are fit and well. I have to say that for a number of reasons, I had to stop exercising regularly for a short period – and boy did it take its toll.   My advice is to build exercise into your life – full stop. It’s not an optional extra – it’s a necessity.  Do whatever it takes to stay active and well. Zumba classes, yoga, pilates, get outside for a run/jog/walk – go for a swim or get down to the gym.  Even if it’s just simply getting outside for a walk. Get out, get some fresh air and do something. Ideally every day.  When my daughter wants to go for a bike ride – I get my trainers on – and she’s a great pacer.  Even if it’s only 20 minutes. You’ll feel a whole lot better.  Physically and mentally.
4. Me time - get into the habit of making some ‘me time’.  There’s nothing clever about working and worrying 24 hours a day.  You’ll burn out, lose momentum, become low and energy and enthusiasm will slip far from your grasp.  Don’t let yourself get to that stage.  Take ‘me time’ – and by this I mean doing whatever it takes to ‘recharge your batteries’.  Whether it’s a long walk, training for a marathon, yoga, meditation, hanging out with the children, feeding the ducks, dog walks, listening to music, dancing, going down the gym, reading a book etc - whatever it takes – be sure you do some of it regularly.   I recommend at least 1 hour of ‘me time’ a day.  Sounds like it should be simple to fit in just 1 hour a day – but you’ll find that it isn’t.  So start with setting 1 hour as your benchmark – and see how you go.
5. Learn to say NO when you need to.  Being passionate and enthusiastic has its downfalls too. You can be so keen to get involved in ‘everything’ that before you know it  you’ve tied yourself in a number of impossible knots. We’ve all been there – double diary bookings, working weekends, missing out on those all important ‘me time’ sessions because you’re up to your eyeballs.  Saying NO when you need to is also about remaining focused on what’s important.   Be sure you are in charge of your time management. If you don’t want to say ‘No’ then perhaps suggest a later date you can get involved. It’s tricky – but definitely worth mastering.

So that’s it – simple eh – keep optimistic, energised, enthused and focused on what you want to achieve in 2013.  At the end of the day it’s you that matters – with your mental and physical energy levels in tip top condition, that’s what’s really going to help you stand out in a crowd and cope with challenges that come your way!

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Here’s to an energetic, happy and successful 2013!  It’s going to be a great year for sure.

@Michelle Carvill is owner and Marketing Director at Carvill Creative – the online visibility experts. A digital marketing and design agency based in Maidenhead, Berkshire.  The agency covers all aspects of online visibility – covering social media marketing, social media consultancy, social media training, user focused website planning and conversion focused website design.

For marketing and social media advice – view the Carvill Creative Blog