New Year, New Goals and Resolutions

As the new year approaches, it's time to reflect upon what we didn't get done or what we wish to do better in 2013 - Am I right?

My only resolution for 2012 was to be happy, positive, and "go with the flow" of the universe in living in the moment, rather than focusing so much time and energy on worrying about things out of my control.

I'm HAPPY to say, I've done a pretty good job with that, even through a temporary job transition over the Summer. By the way, if there's ever a good time to be out of work- Summer is it, because at least there is pool time between interviews and networking!

My positive inspiration came from a little book called "The Secret."  I've learned that you can control your thoughts to be positive and change your mood in a flash. By focusing on helping others good karma always seems to follow, bringing new connections, friendships, and adventures. I will continue practicing having a positive attitude every day in 2013 in addition to a few tactical, measurable goals.

I've decided to take a tactical and accountable approach to my professional goals in 2013:

1. Grow Social Media Club Nashville's professional community by personally inviting digital marketing/social media pros to get involved. My goal is three to five new connections per month. If you know of someone who's in social media marketing in Nashville, please send them my way!

2. Read one career book a month. I've been attending Social Media Club's Professional Book Club Webinar Series lately and have been inspired to connect with many of the authors featured. There's so much we can learn from each other in the digital marketing world. Maybe I'll start a monthly book review on my blog, just to hold myself accountable.

3. Share my thoughts and ideas more often. I plan to schedule regular blog writing sessions and create a content calendar for my blog. I'm always thinking of blog article ideas and usually have several drafts in my head, now I need to get it out of my head and into the world. The toughest part will be self-discipline in following through. If you see I haven't posted in a while (at least a couple times a month), feel free to call me out on it! There's nothing like public shame to reinforce good behavior.

4. Take time to relax, exercise, and have a little fun! Believe it or not, I have to schedule time for myself amongst all the Nashville networking events and work. I'm giving myself permission to not have to go to everything all the time. A social butterfly has to rest her wings every once in a while. If I'm not at an event, just tweet me a hello at @crossga and I'll see ya next time!

Know of a digital way to keep organized? I'm looking for suggestions on the best time management, scheduling, and planning apps, websites, etc. Please list any ones you have found to be helpful in the comments section below.

Thanks and Happy New Year!     :)