Let's Start Over. Again.
Posted by January 6th 10
Ahh, back to our routine! At this point, many of us are happy about the return of our regularly scheduled programming. Happy to pack up Christmas clutter. Really happy to throw out that fruitcake. Come to think of it, we're even happy to get back to work!
But, wait a second. We shouldn't go back to our routine. Most of us want to change something in our lives or careers. And to do that, we need a new routine. Even those of us who scoff at New Year's Resolutions are still working toward goals of some kind.
All the resolution-related articles do have a point: If you want to change something, you have to plan for it. And simply putting your tie on and returning to work isn't a plan. The good news is that there are tons of time-management tools and apps to help you plan your efforts for the next year.
When it comes to content marketing specifically, it's a good time to think about having a daily or weekly strategy in place for moving toward your goals. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Don't ditch 2009 just yet: Before you trash last year's calendar, it's a good idea to look back through it. You'll be reminded of all that did happen and all that was accomplished, and of the things that remain on your to-do list. Envision what you want to happen this year.
Say "Happy New Year" and mean it: Yes, this annual greeting does resemble the ubiquitous "Have a Nice Day", but there is typically a short period after the holidays where managers and co-workers are a little more open and friendlier. People have had a break, energy is renewed and slates have been wiped clean. Take advantage of this time to strike up new conversations, ask advice, reaffirm professional relationships, share ideas and initiate new projects.
Commit to being more social: We all know that accomplishing our goals isn't just about us; it's about having contacts, networks and relationships that will help pave the way. Make regular commenting, connecting and conversation a weekly goal. Exploit social networks as much as you can.
Connect to a worthy cause: We all want to find more meaning in our work and lives, yet the day-to-day rush often discourages socially conscious work. If you can find a way to tie the project or marketing you're doing to a worthy cause, you'll be that much more motivated to reach your goal.
Happy New Year!
posted in Other
March 2010
