As your 2006 begins to find its stride, are you creating new traction or just keeping up with the same old routines? Have you implemented sudden changes as New Year's Resolutions? Are they working for you? Or, do you find you are fighting an inner battle: Will Power vs. Want Power.

I am not an advocate for New Year's Resolutions. When you resolve to make a sudden change in life, the outcome can be like betting it all on red (or black) at a Las Vegas roulette wheel. You hope for the best, shut one eye, and, after the half-expected disappointment of falling short, you find yourself emotionally (or financially) depleted and wondering "What happened?"

This year, let me suggest a different plan. Instead of making New Year's Resolutions, let's make 2006 one of New Year's Evolution. This year, allow yourself to evolve all aspects of your life. Instead of huge sweeping changes, create smaller, measurable, lasting adjustments, as you transition to an improved version of you.

New Years Evolution

evolution: a gradual, relatively peaceful process of continuous change from a lower, simpler state to a higher, more complex, or better state; unfolding growth.

It's a process. An unstoppable, repeating, unending process. In your lifetime you will never reach the end of the rainbow, but you can learn to take hold of the colors of change and paint your own masterpiece. And the paint on life's canvas never dries completely. This evolutionary process is one you direct through your choices and actions. To become a master of evolutionary improvement, you must embrace an exciting "operating system" for your life.

Off Balance On Purpose

If you know me or have been reading Action Mail for long, you will know that Off Balance On Purpose (OBOP) is my desired mode of operation. If you seek to find a balanced state of living, you are chasing an unrealistic fantasy. That's because balance is something you can only experience over time. And, it is the result of living many consecutive moments off balance with conviction, meaning, and purpose. Briefly, let me explain.

Off Balance is the the way you accomplish your goals, love your family, grow your business, improve your health, find your spiritual calling, and discover your unique interests. Off Balance is the way of accomplishment and positive change. Embrace it, and find control even in times of uncertainty.

On Purpose means two things. First, that your direction of change is deliberate. You take responsibility for your actions and choices in life and make them consciously, with full accountability for your successes and set backs. Secondly, On Purpose suggests that your actions are connected to a sense of meaning, a reason for being, and a deep desire to follow the path congruent with your values, principles, and beliefs. It means you are doing what you are meant to do.

In the next several issues of Action Mail, we will explore the process of OBOP in greater detail. Like evolution itself, it is an unstoppable, repeating, unending process. I believe you will gain a greater sense of control and fulfillment as you follow this journey of self discovery. Here's a preview:

The OBOP Process

1. Own Your Reality- Get honest about where you are and what is actually happening.
2. Seek Your Purpose- This is a lifelong pursuit, but you can get started by defining your values, your goals, and the things that matter most.
3. Lean Forward- You must make yourself uncomfortable. Feel the excitement that comes from being intentionally off balance.
4. Leverage Your Resources- Use your time, money, energy, and relationships to support your decisions.
5. Follow Through- Sustain the momentum to achieve your goals. Answer the question "Why is it important to you?" Then commit to following through despite the inevitable obstacles.

This month, think about the idea of living Off Balance On Purpose. Does it appeal to you? In your daily experience, identify Off Balance moments as they arise, and ask yourself if they are purposeful or reactive? Next month we will take ownership of your reality and prepare a foundation for lasting change.

Your Partner in Action,

Dan

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