Sara Fitts Reflects on 2008

This Week with Sara Fitts reflects on 2008 on this New Year's Eve afternoon. As is my tradition of many. many years I use this day to reflect on the past year and assess the entire year in this afternoon while planning the new year.

2008 had many good points, several struggles, and lots of opportunities for growth - both personal as well as professional. I had my best business year ever during 2008 from January to June. Then the economy hit me like it hit so many others. July was a real turning point for me. Then in August I accepted a position in DC Government with DCPS as a coach - actually, a professional developer. My business skills were used in a whole new way in an educational setting.

In October I reached a personal milestone that I had prepared for over a period of 18 months. It was fabulous - and still is! Lesson learned: planning, goal-setting, and implementation plans work!

Since August my routine has certainly changed - I rise before 3:30 a.m. and am on my way to my office even before 5:00 a.m. I arrive back home between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. My routine is definitely different - and life is good!

If I had to bottom-line what I've learned in 2008, this is it:

• Faith is really the way to live life for me.
• New things don't have to be scary.
• One can definitely be fit by 50.
• When you love what you do, you do it better and you enjoy it much more.
• When you embrace what is difficult, it gets easier - and you find joy in it.
• When you look for the joy in everything, you find it.
• When you get out of the boat in faith, your feet really do stay dry. (Thanks Stuart!)
• Planning, goal-setting, action plans, and implementation of the action plan moves one forward faster than flying by the seat of one's pants.
• One can be older and wiser without being old.
• Escape is necessary - especially in the form of music, books, movies, and good conversation.
• Life is good - because (to quote my grandmother) nothing is ever so bad that it can't be worse.
• Results are the real returns on investments. So to invest in oneself is the way to go!

And looking to 2009, these are just a few of the goals I have:

• to learn French - and be able to speak it
• to maintain personal fitness and wellness
• to be as financially fit as possible
• to enhance my appreciation of art and music
• and to live each day to its fullest with no regrets

Thank you for indulging me on this New Year's Eve. I wish you much happiness and many blessings in 2009. Happy New Year!

Sara

Sara Fitts is a personal and business coach as well as professional developer. She motivates and coaches individuals and business owners. For a confidential appointment with Sara, please contact her @ thecoach@SLFConsulting.com or call her @ 703.791.4741. Visit www.SLFConsulting.com for more.