As another year comes to an end, many people use this time to focus on the next year and what they would like to achieve. In order to do this, a clean sheet may be required. Many people carry around a lot of “baggage” with them or “clutter” in their minds, which needs to be removed before moving on.

When I say clutter or baggage, I mean the "coulds", "shoulds" and "woulds" that hold you back. If you are able to let go of this physical or emotional baggage, it will give you the time and motivation to allow you to focus on something more productive instead.

So, why not start 2007 with a new approach to life?

Take a look at your life by asking yourself a series of questions and by completing the following exercise. What I am asking you to do is to make certain tasks complete, or draw a line under them and move on. You can complete the following sets of questions in one go or over a number of days - if you write down the answers, you can review them at a later date and check your progress. So, get to it and declutter your life and watch your confidence soar!

1. What are you putting up with?

Make a list of 10 things that you are putting up with at home

Make a list of 10 things that you are putting up with at work

Make a list of 10 things that you are putting up with in any other area of your life

Make an action plan to get rid of/communicate these things that you have been putting up with

2. Unfinished matters

Make a list of things that are unresolved/unfinished in your life

Make an action plan of how to reduce this number!

Do you need to clear the air with anyone? If so, just do it! Life is too short!

Did you ever say that you were going to call someone or keep in touch with someone yet have done nothing about it? If yes, call them or send an email to them today

Let go of as many coulds, woulds, shoulds, maybe, oughts as you can. Write these down.

3. Your standards

Write down the standards or ideals that you have been saying to yourself that you should have; let go of these and write down a list of the standards that you are going to have in your life from this day forward.

List 5 people who you admire the most. What are their greatest qualities, behaviour and how they lead their life? What standards do they have? What standards could you raise starting today to be more like them?

Respect that other’s standards will be different from your own. Think of 5 close colleagues or friends – what are their standards and how are they different to yours?

By completing these exercises you will be able to focus more on the here, the now, and the future.

You will now be able to let go of some of the things that have been taking up your valuable time and the things that knock your self esteem.

Thank you for reading. I would love to hear your views on the decluttering exercise, how did it work for you?

At this time of year, many people start to think about New Year's resolutions, so why not treat yourself (or someone you love) to the gift of coaching. Achieve your dreams in 2007!

I'm offering a special price for my newsletter readers. A package of 4 coaching sessions is available for a special offer of £150, saving £70 on the normal price - this offer is valid until 31 December 2006.

Contact me for more details at karen@selfdiscoverycoaching.co.uk or call 07823 335747.