Kevin,

I run a medium-sized media magazine, and we're always great about starting off the new year strong, especially when all of the resolutions are fresh and the year seems like an exciting and totally clean slate.

How can I, as the CEO, make sure that we keep our new year's momentum going all year long?

Happy 2011!

Carl Wilson
Lafayette, CA

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Happy New Year, Carl.

Thanks for your note about making solid New Year's Resolutions.

I look at New Year’s Day as a time to take inventory of myself and of those things that are really important to me in both my personal and business lives. From your email, I’m assuming that you welcome in the new year in a similar way.

It is a great time to recommit yourself and your business to your purpose and core values  and to take the time to review them with those that are important. As important as recommitting and reviewing are, it is imperative that we take the time to make any necessary changes to our purpose and core values, so as to stay relevant going forward.

Next, hold yourself accountable for those things that you want to see change . These can be personal goals or any necessary tactical changes that will impact your business’ results for 2011. Use a weekly or monthly tracking tool for yourself, and take time before each week and month starts to make an honest accessment of your results. Remember not to confuse activities with results.

Finally, share your 2011 purpose, values and tactics with those that matter. This could be family, close friends or your team.

The key that I have found when people ask "How do you keep the music playing" with New Year’s Resolutions or business plans is accountability and communication.  Whatever the targets are, your ability to execute at an extraordinary level will be based on your level of accountability to yourself and your team.

Happy new year to you and your family. Here's to 2011 being the best year ever!  

Peace.

Live strong,
kevin e. dunn