What are your new year resolutions?

I try not to have the traditional “Get more exercise” type of resolution because they usually bring me down at a time of year when it is gloomy enough (in UK anyway).

Last year I challenged myself to do 12 new things instead. I managed about 6 before life took over, but they were great fun (learning the piano from YouTube, writing a children’s book, setting up an Etsy shop, self-publishing a book etc.). Some I’ve stuck with and have become new hobbies, some I’ve given up, but I definitely enjoyed the experiment and I’m trying to think of some new things for this year.

I always find it a fascinating experience to do something completely new: to experience being “all thumbs” and struggling with the basics. Then experiencing that massive steep improvement as you learn. Then the plateau when you realise that there is so much more to learn and question your previous confidence. Lastly the happiest place to be (for me): competent but continuing to learn tips and techniques from more experienced people, having the confidence to experiment and try out new ideas and fail and carry on, having respect and admiration for those who’ve been doing whatever-it-is for years and simply continuing to learn.

Do you have any interesting resolutions? What will you learn this year?

Or will you follow Julian Summerhayes’ advice and stop a bit more often and do nothing? (I wish I could find the link to his article I saw on LinkedIn – Julian, if you read this can you add it in the comments?).

Where now?

• If you are interested in learning and the new regime which took over from CPD in UK, click here.
• If you are interested in learning more about KM and other skills related to being a KMer, click here.
• If you are interested in a bit of fun Christmas after action learning, click here.
• If you are interested in a bit of New Year Kaizen, click here.

And if you want a monthly busy-person’s summary of all things KM from me, join the newsletter here.