Fun fact: Only 8% of people who set New Year's resolutions actually achieve them. Have you ever been one of them? Fret not, it happens to the best of us. It's nice to set intentions, resolutions or goals, but what's critical is to cultivate the discipline it takes to make them come true. And it all starts with having a plan, one that will keep you focused throughout the year. Yes, the key is to create a system to ensure you will execute on your words.
To that end, I spoke to five accomplished female business owners who have taken the concept of organization and execution to the next level. As powerhouse entrepreneurs and women in fashion, skincare, finance, art & design, these modern women have shown innovation, resilience, and passion in their industries and beyond. They were also recognized on the “Create & Cultivate 100” list, presented by Chevrolet, which highlights women across 10 categories who are making moves and re-defining the future of the workplace and the world.
Here's what they had to say:
Get clarity on your WHY
"Do a deep dive into your goals of the year. Start writing out [by hand] what they are, detail what you want to do, who you want to speak to and serve, and most importantly WHY you want to do it. Make it about who it will serve and benefit, and why it is important to you. After that, the ‘how’ you will do it will become more clear. It’s all about the Why." - Jane Wurwand, cofounder and chief visionary of Dermalogica.
Write everything down
"To stay organized in 2019, I have bought myself a physical planner. My iCal holds everything I need, but with an actual planner, I can keep myself on track in a tangible way. I also am a big believer in writing things down, and with that process comes a certain power in setting and accomplishing goals, both long and short-term. I think we're addicted to screens in this day and age, so a little old fashioned writing, whether it's my to-do list, random thoughts or ideas I have throughout the day, reasons of gratitude, is a really nice and important routine to get myself adjusted to this year." - Anine Bing, cofounder and chief creative officer, ANINE BING.
Ease into your mornings
"Use your mornings productively. Before the chaos of the day, take a bit of personal time to reflect and recharge, then get one important task done. With so many little things to take care of, this will help you set a productive course for the rest of the day and ensure you keep your priorities in mind." - Shivani Siroya, CEO and founder of Tala.
Ask for help
"There’s zero shame in asking for help. Center yourself around people who are both championing for your success and holding you accountable for your mistakes, It's really one of the best ways to stay focused and encourage you to keep leveling up." - Kenesha Sneed, art director and founder of Tactile Matter.
Create a solid action plan, then follow it religiously
"Stop talking and start doing. It is not only about establishing the goal itself or having a grandiose vision of success, but also about every step (however challenging) required to achieve that goal. This not only takes drive, but also self-discipline, and that's what it all comes down to. So focus on the end-goal, but also on the tasks and complete them with dedication and excellence. Because it is only then that you will truly live the life you want." - Magdalena Kokoszynska, lead creative designer, Chevrolet Color and Trim.
