Deep Thoughts from the Steps: By Andrea Oden

Your Steps Are Ordered & Good!

It's that time of year again. The holidays are upon us, and with them comes reflection on the year past and setting intentions for the year to come. If you're like most people, you might look back on the past 12 months and feel you have yet to accomplish all you set out to do. But I beg to differ. You have accomplished a lot this year. Every year, I challenge my tribe to spend the month of December reflecting, with me, on the year and all you have accomplished. Every December, I go through my calendar and look at meetings and connections I've made. I go through every project I've worked on, every client, and every relationship. I reflect on the small and big wins. I look at my goals set in January and compare them to what I have now achieved. It's easy to go from one year to the next without realizing how far you've come. Instead of dwelling on all that you didn't accomplish or comparing yourself to someone else, take some time to recognize and appreciate your steps.

All of us take small steps in life. Every day we make decisions that propel us forward in our respective paths. It's easy to forget these steps as we move through our daily lives, yet it is essential to remember them every once in a while.

Every small step is an opportunity for growth and self-development, no matter how minuscule the progress may seem. What matters more than the size of the steps is that you are taking steps in the right direction toward your goals.

Faith is Taking the first step even if you don't see the whole staircase 

~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

It's also important to remember that our steps are not always taken in a straight line. We make detours, take wrong turns, and sometimes even find ourselves walking backward. These are often the most important steps as they provide valuable lessons we need to learn before continuing forward.

Success is a journey with many steps, and each step helps you move closer to your goals. So keep going even if you feel you are where you should be. Keep putting one foot in front of the other; eventually, you will get where you want to go.

The Steps of a Good Man Are Ordered!

One of my favorite books has the quote: "The steps of a good man (or woman) are ordered." This quote means no matter where you step, it's good. As we end the year, I want to challenge you to consider your steps ordered and good. The only thing that makes your steps ineffective is when you stop moving forward. So as the year comes to an end, commit to reflecting and appreciating how far you've come, and keep moving forward.

What You Learn When You Reflect

As I began reflecting this month, three specific accomplishments stand out to me so far.

First, I was able to fully launch my own business. It's been a lifelong dream of mine to be my own boss, and this year I finally leaped. It hasn't been easy, but it's been rewarding to see my business grow and thrive. I hired a business coach and am preparing to onboard my first employee.

Second, I joined a professional network that allowed me to make great connections. Joining this network has been invaluable for my business growth, and I'm so thankful to have connected with such amazing people. This network has allowed me to serve more clients, mentor more entrepreneurs, and expand my business reach.

Third, I created a home office environment that makes me feel excited about work every morning. As someone who works from home, having a dedicated workspace is essential. Creating a work environment that is comfortable and productive has allowed me to focus on my business and maximize my effectiveness.

Lastly, I was able to spend quality time with my family and friends. Reflecting on these times made me realize how meaningful my family and friends are and I became immediately committed to making more memories with my family and friends in 2023.

Become Intentional About 2023

As we look to close out one year and walk into a new year, let's take a moment to celebrate how far we've come. Let's be intentional about setting goals for the coming year but also remember that no matter where we step, our steps are ordered and good. Here's to an incredible 2023!

For more information on goal setting and career growth, visit my website at www.andreaoden.com.