This Chinese New Year is the Year of the Water Rabbit. The rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace and prosperity. Water signifies travel and movement. Now, you may not subscribe to symbols and signs, but we can learn from the general themes. Hope is the overall theme. After dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic and feeling the continued waves of its impact, hope seems to be just the thing we need.
Hope is easily defined but not always logical. You can wish for things to happen and desire a possible outcome, but it won’t just happen without your action. Your will can and does determine what happens in your life, for the most part. There are always outside factors to be considered. But an active will, says “I will apply for a job today” and then takes the steps to go online and look for job openings, email resumes and send applications to viable options. If you say “I hope to apply for a job today” and then take no steps to look for job openings, your hope is dashed. What is the difference between the two scenarios? YOU.
The best way to ensure that our hopes turn into reality is to make a list or an action plan.
5 Steps to Achieve Your Hopes
- Write down all your hopes. Don’t censor yourself.
- Write down action steps to get started. i.e. I hope I get a new job this year. Action: Start networking with friends and acquaintances, look at online tools such as The Maui County Virtual Job Fair, write down the requirements for the jobs you want and what it will take to accomplish.
- Put dates next to your action plan. Give yourself time, but not too much time to take the first step and then add to your plan as you go.
- Don’t stop until you achieve what you want.
- Tell a friend what you want to do and ask for them to check in with you on your progress. A little accountability is motivating.
Challenge yourself this year and work out your most powerful muscle, your will!
Move forward with confidence, like the rabbit, and hope that 2023 will be a great year no matter what.
