“January is always a good month for behavioral economics: Few things illustrate self-control as vividly as New Year’s resolutions. February is even better, though, because it lets us study why so many of those resolutions are broken.” – Sendhil Mullainathan
The concept of ‘double new beginnings’ (recently learnt in an enlightening yoga lesson) could be just what many of us need, particularly now that the holidays really are over!
A new beginning happens before a double new beginning – January 1st for example.
Often, after some time, if these new beginnings haven’t worked out as intended, the concept of double new beginnings is very apt.
This is where we reflect on our new beginnings, go deeper with the learning and awareness, think about what choices were true and supportive, all the while recognising behaviours and patterns that are holding you back and also appreciating that which is supporting you to move forward.
It’s a nice way to build upon new habits and behaviours, while remaining realistic.
Rarely do we as individuals or teams change overnight. But often we get demotivated or cynical about what is possible if we don’t see things happening in line with our expectations.
As a leader, why not reflect with yourself or your team on the double new beginning once a new initiative has started or target has been set?
- Are you where you had planned or expected?
- If so, could you raise the bar higher?
- If not, what is it that’s stopping you? What foundations need building? What are you missing? Have you really explored all options?
- Are our behaviours aligned with our intentions?
- Are you appreciating, and maximising, all resources available to you?
We tend to expect an improved change in results immediately. But rarely does that actually happen.
Double New Beginnings allows us to revisit goals, intentions and performance while giving space for learning, awareness and appreciation. If 2016 hasn’t started exactly as you wanted, why not start again?