The New Year Resolution You Shouldn’t Break

According to research 80% fail by February and the marvellous plans to get fit, quit vaping and drinking, save more, use less plastic and be kinder to the in-laws go by the wayside. It’s an annual ritual that many of us go through, spurred on by the indulgence of Christmas.
 
But there are New Year resolutions that have more staying power if you follow the right action plan. If you have reached the stage in life when you have a track record of successes, a New Year resolution to improve your reputation and raise your profile through the winning of awards is a highly achievable and worthwhile endeavour.
 
First you need to do some research – ask colleagues, competitors, PR experts and friends how they perceive you and your standing in your industry and community.  Look at your press cuttings – are they glowing, nondescript or sparse? Is there room for improvement?
 
Think about how winning an industry award such as the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year or the National Business Awards Entrepreneur of the Year could enhance your image, position you as a thought leader and create trust, thereby helping you to win more business or more support for your community and charity work. Then there is Queen’s Honours, such as an MBE, OBE, CBE or even a knighthood or damehood, which is the most prestigious of all.

Always study the criteria carefully and enter personal awards that you are more likely to win. It’s not a numbers game: it’s about choosing the right awards in the first place.
 
When the enthusiasm for the new-you fades, your steadfast awards plan and submission of entries will see you through the year and have a greater impact on your wellbeing, success and future in your chosen field than you can imagine.