As we welcome a new decade, many people are dreaming and preparing for a year with a difference. The start of any year is often seen as an opportunity to set new goals or perhaps transfer last years goals onto the list for 2011.

We hope for changes in different areas of our life including relationships, work, health, spirituality and finances. The list of individual dreams and goals are as long and unique as the number of people living in the world today. For some it may be

finding their next meal whereas others are ready to take on the world.

Many of us focus on not achieving enough or have an often unrealistic list of goals. However, how often do you stop, just for a moment, to reflect on what you have achieved, what you have and what worked well?

I have always been someone with a lot of passion for life, believing that I could live until I was 1000 years old and never experience all the wonderful things the world has to offer. However, more often than not I achieve something only to quickly move onto the next exciting experience.

Although I have experienced so much, I realise that I often move onto the next item, not truly appreciating and reflecting on what I have actually done! I have to constantly remind myself that it is the journey not the destination that makes life special and rich

Today I wrote down my achievements, learnings and challenges during 2010. The process was an interesting insight into just how much I had achieved; the unique experiences, amazing connections with people and challenges that have given me additional resources that will prepare me, both personally and professionally, for the exciting year ahead.

Invest ten minutes in yourself and reflect on your 2010:

-          What have you learned this year?

-          Who has been an important part of your life (and let them know)

-          What has been fun and enjoyable?

-          What did you achieve?

-          What have been the wins professionally?

-          How have you developed personally?

-          What challenges have you overcome?

If you are like me, you will be pleasantly surprised by your discoveries. Life is always full of opportunities for learning and growth so set yourself a goal for 2011, achieve it then celebrate your success!