This can involve reviewing the goals we want to achieve or things we want to do differently, while weighing up our priorities and determining what is achievable and what requires some concerted effort.
In order to start achieving our objectives, there are some proven tools that help us to do so and one particular model – ‘force-field analysis’ – was developed by social psychologist, Kurt Lewin, using using his understanding of theory, mathematics and common sense.
As it’s the festive season, I’ll put the maths to one side and keep things simple by concentrating on the common sense and theory.
If there is an objective or goal to be achieved or a problem to be solved the ‘force-field analysis’ requires you to write down what you want to achieve and list on opposite sides the ‘drivers’ and ‘blockers’.
With this method, the way to get real movement is to increase the drivers and reduce the blockers.
A lot of motivational speakers put an emphasis on boosting drivers i.e. “get more motivated”, “visualise the goal”, “push through adversity” etc.
But Lewin argues that the most effective way to create a real shift is to work on reducing the blockers, because trying to increase drivers can prove ultimately frustrating and counterproductive.
For example, becoming a chartered financial planner is a great goal to have.
The drivers might be: the ability to charge higher fees, work with wealthier clients, improve knowledge, be RDR-ready, increase ones standing in the community, improve one’s self-worth, etc.
However, using Lewin’s theory, trying to boost any of these drivers will be unlikely to help you pass the exams.
There may be considerable blockers to such an achievement, such as a lack of time, a lack of knowledge, not being booked on a course, not having reading material, not having the funds available for fees, etc.
Yet, these blockers can all be easily worked on and, by doing so, the individual will make a considerable difference.
So, if you’re going to commit to a New Year’s resolution, perhaps it is time to work on what is going to stop it happening, rather than focusing on why you should be making it.
You may be pleasantly surprised by what you’ll achieve.
Peter Welch is head of sales and distribution at Bridgewater Equity Release
