As 2007 comes to a close, we are all presented with a great opportunity to reflect on the year’s events and truly assess ourselves and our organizations in the hopes of setting goals that will help make the new year the best yet. Take a moment to reflect on 2007.

What successes have you celebrated?

What challenges stood in your way?

What was your biggest accomplishment? Your biggest regret?

Who were your “go-to” people that contributed significantly?

Then, before we ring in the New Year, take the time to think about where you want to be a year from now. Set your goals.

Okay. So what usually happens to New Year’s goals and resolutions?

So much of our behavior is based on allowing current circumstances to dictate our next steps. We are “groove-seekers.” In our humanity, most of us find a path and we stay in it for the most part. And we are really good at defaulting to our old behaviors and patterns.

To really increase the likelihood of realizing your 2008 goals, we need think “more intentionally.” Don’t default to the old behaviors – look for something new and challenging. Look for better ways. Leaders are charged to create a better, brighter tomorrow. We can’t do that from our old paths (ruts). Our call to action as leaders is “what else can we/I do to make it better?” And it starts with our personal effectiveness – self leadership.

Go ahead; write your 2008 goals down. Take ownership so they become truly achievable. Better yet, copy them in your planner. Share them with your colleagues. Pin them to the wall and place them wherever they will serve as a continuous reminder along your journey through the New Year. Commit and follow through.

So, from all of us here at LeadershipOne, here’s to a great 2008 – one in which each of us takes charge of creating a better tomorrow.

Hal Johnson has been CEO of several companies and has authored three books on business performance. He is Chairman of LeadershipOne, a Business Transition consulting firm. He may be reached at (916) 391-3042 or at [email protected].