Do You Know Big Mo?
Congratulations! We made it through the first week back after the holidays. For so many of us, including me, getting back to the grind after the holidays takes some intentionality.
We became accustomed to sitting around with our family and friends nibbling on bonbons and watching our favorite holiday movies that take us back to when we were younger.
The first Monday back is always the hardest for me because I have to create the momentum again and I don’t take to not being busy very easily.
Think about it this way: A train going 55 mph can crash through a steel-reinforced concrete wall without stopping.
That same train, starting from a stationary position, won’t be able to go through an inch-thick block of cement set in front of it.
Finding momentum is key to building our businesses, growing personally, and creating the energy that will take us to success. John Maxwell calls momentum “The Big Mo” and has taught me that it is a leader's best friend.
So, if you are feeling a little sluggish getting off the track, start asking yourself what is the root cause of this lack of momentum. Self-awareness is the key to preparedness.
Here are some helpful tips that I have applied in my own personal development that you may want to put to the test if you want to pick up speed and momentum:
Change your words: Intentionality means we need to use words that put our mindset in the direction we want to go. Just a simple word and how we set our intention towards it can make a big difference. Instead of telling yourself and others what you CAN do this year, act as if you have already sealed the deal and tell yourself what you WILL do this year. Your mind starts focusing on the end result and the momentum will start to build because you have given it no other option to think otherwise.
Get a quick win: There is something contagious about success. Even if it is a small success, it can start to build momentum towards bigger successes. I mean, who doesn’t feel pumped up to do more after we succeed? Starting off the new year with a small win right out of the gate, by setting a small goal we can knock out, will gear us up. Don’t try to conquer the mountain on the first day, find a win in taking the first step.
No vampires allowed: Are you spending time with energy vampires who are sucking the life out of you? Do you talk more about your problems than your progress? If you are always hearing negativity and listening to “Debbie Downers” in your life (maybe that person is yourself), you are depleting your energy. Negative behavior feeds on negative behavior. We have all heard “misery loves company.”
Stay in the “zone”: When we are in our “strength zone” it creates engagement within and positive energy. A strength is not something that we are just good at, but a task that also energizes us. Even if you are not able to focus on your strengths in your job as much as you would like to, you have to find activities outside of work that will plug into them. When we are engaged, our energy builds, and energy creates momentum to create progress in our intentions. Work with a coach if needed, to help you understand how to create ways outside of work that will play to your strengths.
To your growth,
Kelly Merbler