Ring in the New Year with Principles NOT Resolutions!

Principle-based living is not a new ideology. Warren Buffett invests widely based on principles that he follows. Jesus’ teachings were based on the principle of “love for all”.  Thriving corporate cultures guide their team members with principles. We read articles daily that highlight how people have succeeded through principles, such as  The 7 Success Principles of Steve Jobs and most lucrative businesses base their strategic actions on principles. It makes sense then to individually adopt principle-based living in order to succeed.

So, what is the difference between principles and resolutions? Principles are defined as personal or specific bases of conduct or management. They leave room for adaptability, fluctuation, and innovation. Resolutions are defined as the act of determining upon an action or course of action, method, procedure, etc. They are rigid, narrowly defined, and inflexible.

Evidence shows that principles are the foundation for success in all aspects of life. If you truly want to make positive changes this year, let go of resolutions and define your principles instead.

Here’s how…

Clarify your Vision ~ Where do you want to go? Passionate visions are formed through letting go of the “don’t want” and defining the “do want”. For example, instead of “I don’t want to be overweight” use “I want to be healthy, fit, and feel good about my body”.

Find your Why ~ According to Simon Sinek, it is the WHY that fuels the motivation for action. Breathe. Slow down…and feel your why. Write down any “whys” that come to you. Keep writing until the one that feels right jumps off the page and into your heart.

Define Principles for your Vision ~ A well-founded principle is defined loosely yet action strong allowing for flexibility. If exercise is chosen as an action for healthy living, frame the principle something like this…

Principle = Break a sweat for 30 minutes 4 times a week.

And avoid this…

Resolution = I will do cardio on Monday at 7-8am, weights on Wednesday at 7-8am, yoga on Friday 6-8pm, and Zumba on Saturday 9-10am.

The sample principle allows for easy flexibility when faced with a deviation in your schedule, such as travelling for work. Now you can stick to the principle by choosing a different mode of exercise at a different time. The resolution does not allow for that adaptability and the sense of failure becomes imminent. Does this mean you shouldn’t sign up for classes? No. Signing up for classes is the action based on the principle. The action can change while the principle remains the same.

Check In When Making All Decisions ~ Check in regularly to make sure your actions align with your principles. Even the smallest decision can move you towards or away from your vision.

Succeed! ~ Moving through life based on principles that work for you, defined by YOU propels you towards your vision of the life you would like to live.   

Principles can be defined for each area of your life in work, relationships, health, fulfillment, and more. When you set principles for each area, the sum of the positively functioning areas equals the whole of a successfully fulfilling life.  Now you are Living Life Your Way!