What becomes possible when we shift our thinking to the “what if” mode? I’m talking about letting go and allowing ideas to generate without judgment or negative commentary or disparaging remarks. Where will your thoughts take you?

In truth, permitting yourself to dream and allowing the “what ifs” to surface can be challenging for some. Is it for you?

Enjoy some space to explore...

Do you need help getting your “what if” juices flowing?  If so, try one of these strategies:

1. Nature Nudge – Being outside, especially this time of year when the fall leaves are changing color, helps us expand our thinking. On several recent outside jaunts, it was impossible not to feel inspired by the views around me. The expansiveness of nature’s beauty opened my mind to larger, unencumbered thinking. Being surrounded by the fresh air and blue skies allowed me to breathe in positivity.

2. People Nudge – Having stimulating conversations with your people (family, friends, or colleagues) is a great way of encouraging the “what if?” mode. Being around others that are thinking big and imagining what’s possible can inspire us to expand beyond our current constraints. I just returned from the Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD) conference in Denver where I had the opportunity to exchange ideas with wonderful colleagues from around the world. It was definitely a “what if?” idea booster.

3. Paper Nudge – Allow your inner thoughts to be captured on paper. This is another way to shift into the possibility-thinking mode. If paper isn’t your medium, try other ways to download your ideas like using a voice recorder or computer. I use a combination of techniques including writing with a pen in my journal, typing on a keyboard, and talking out loud with others.

There are many other ways to get the “what if” thoughts flowing. Have you tried, organizing your space, traveling, exercising, creating, showering, or reading? What actions work for you? What’s possible this season? Come join the conversation. 

We’re in week two of the New Year. Are you feeling excited about the opportunity a clean slate presents? Maybe you’re starting to feel slightly less motivated than you did last week?

Being that I’m a big fan of the fresh start, “do-over” period, I began thinking about ways to get the most from this time. I’ve come up with a few ideas and would love to hear from you too. Read on and then please join in and add your thoughts.

7 Tips to Turbocharge Your Year

1. Clarify – Whether you prefer visual images, lists, or recorded messages, allow yourself time to figure out your “do-wants” for this year. Take time to dream and future think. Do you need more clarity? Enlist help from a trusted friend, family member, or professional. Consider using an accountability partner to share your progress and challenges.

2. Motivate – According to leadership coach, David Rock, we are most likely to perform well when we focus on solutions rather than problems. Solutions that we figure out ourselves in those “aha” moments as opposed to ones “offered-up” release a burst of energy. Motivation to take action is highest at this point. Know that you have the answers from within. Tap into your internal riches.

3. Laugh – There is nothing quite like having fun to make us feel as if we can accomplish anything. The joy and laughter that accompanies fun, promotes that “Can do” attitude. In the past few weeks, I enjoyed my share of fun activities, but perhaps more than any other, was when I visited the Ann Hamilton installation at the Park Avenue Armory. Laughter and happiness filled this huge space. Participants of all ages watched the billowing white curtain dance, as the oversized swings we were on, activated the movement of the fabric.

4. Organize – Don’t underestimate the power of feeling organized. While this can look very different to each of us, having a sense of control, clarity, and order in our physical environment can greatly enhance our ability to function well and move ahead. Suspend the notion of organizing perfection. Instead, figure out what organized enough means for you and take small steps to get there. Feeling more organized is a fresh start booster.

5. Develop – Perhaps some of your goals for this year include breaking old habits. Based on neuroscience research and concepts that David Rock has tested, they’ve discovered that changing habits are difficult because they are hardwired in our brains. What is far easier is to create an entirely new habit or wiring. Reframing your goals in the form of adding something new instead of taking away the old could be the key to successfully moving forward.

6. Challenge – What are your plans to move yourself out of your comfort zone? The idea of doing this, and then taking action steps forward to make it happen, can increase confidence, motivation and growth. What’s on your facing your fears list? I’ve got a few things planned, one of which is taking a comedy improv class. Someone asked me if I’m excited about it. I’m not excited, more like, terrified. It’s good for me. What’s good for you?

7. Surround – Focus on the positive. That includes people, spaces, objects, thoughts, and sayings. Release the naysayers and energy drainers. While it can be easy to blame others, we can be our own worst enemy. Suspend the negative self-talk. Acknowledge your strengths and potential. Move forward with positive expectation. As Zig Ziglar said, “Positive thinking will let you do everything better than negative thinking will.”

Energize the days and months ahead. Come join the conversation. Which ideas resonate with you? What will help you get the most from your year?