As I move into 2012 I wanted to re-share an exercise recommended to me by one of my coaching mentors, Sue Sheldon. The exercise is called “Complete The Old, Create The New”. It provided me an opportunity to reflect on my accomplishments from 2011 and become more complete with those things that have fallen short.

The second part of the exercise allowed me to look ahead to 2012 and decide what I wanted to achieve in the coming year. The theory is that by imagining or seeing my intentions as being complete at the end of the year they become real and infinitely more possible.

I started my process with an early morning snowshoe, allowing myself to absorb the fresh air and reflect with gratitude on my life.  Then I sat quietly in front of a crackling fire and began to write. So I invite you to find your quiet spot, have some fun with the questions and enjoy the opportunity to design your own desired future.

Complete the Old – Create the New

Step One – Completeness

What were your wins, successes and breakthroughs in the past year? What were your losses, disappointments and breakdowns in the past year? Think about what it means to be complete with each item. Incompleteness holds us back from taking on the next exciting opportunity.

Step Two – Lessons Learned

Looking over the past year, what are the five to seven lessons you have learned?

Step Three – New Year

Imagine one year ahead, and write a list of all the wins, successes and breakthroughs for the coming year. Some would think about goals but it is more than that, this is about what you want the year to be and what you are creating.

Step Four – Year of the …

Name the year to reflect your journey – e.g. Year of the Courageous Explorer.

Feel free to share what your 2012 year will be about!  In case you are wondering mine will be the “Year of Clear Intentions”.

Happy New Year!