January 1987: A new year replete with images of accomplishments achieved, of goals unfulfilled, of New Year’s resolutions broken too soon, of personal gains, business successes.

The beginning of a new year is traditionally the time for reflection, of reviewing past performance, of planning for the future. But this new year, this brand new year, is also a clean slate of sorts, offering the opportunity to set new goals, to rededicate yourself to your individual style, your business, your career.

There are obviously lessons to be learned from the past 12 months, especially those that may be difficult to address or face. But whatever the lesson or problem, confront it, deal with it, learn from it. We all have the ability to work through such circumstances, to grow from the experience without the effort costing the love of what we do.

If successes far outweighed frustrations, learn from those as well. What were the actions, decisions, attitudes that made it all happen?

Deal with the negative, reinforce the positive, and reflect on the past to avoid the mistakes of the future. But through it all, remember what it was and why you decided to pursue this career. And then approach 1987 as an opportunity to start fresh or, if needed, as a reason to offer and follow through on necessary changes.

Best wishes for a prosperous new year full of personal and professional gains

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