Erma Bombeck is my New Year’s inspiration?

63312255  A few weeks ago, Lewis Green wrote a post about his commitments for '09.  He challenged a handful of us to do the same.

I've been ruminating on it since then because I don't hold a lot of stock in resolutions.  A resolution is a "I'm going to try to…." which almost always results in a week long or month long effort…and then back to the old bad habit.  Typically, resolutions are just wishful thinking.

But a commitment feels more solid.  It's a promise, not a wish.  And so, rising to Lew's challenge…here's my commitment for '09 inspired by all people, Erma Bombeck.

When I stand before God at the end of my life I would hope that I would have not a single bit of talent left and could say…."I used everything You gave me."

 ~ Erma Bombeck

What does that actually mean for me in '09?  In a nutshell, it means serving/helping/teaching as many people as I can, both in person and through technology. 

But specifically in my work world, it will mean:

  • Keeping this blog laser focused on helping business leaders market and brand their business better and smarter
  • Continue to travel the country, speaking at conferences and conventions
  • Launching a teleconference series that will allow readers to listen, learn and ask questions about marketing and branding
  • Introduce a new way for businesses to interact with me and build their own marketing program (more on this in early '09)
  • Look for more collaborative projects like Age of Conversation and Bloggers Social that give all of us a chance to learn from each other

And specifically for my soul, it will mean:

  • Being present and in tune with my family and friends
  • Continuing to be available to speak to college classes
  • Continuing my service to the non-profit boards I'm fortunate enough to be on
  • Giving myself permission to slow down and find an oasis to soak up now and then
  • Remembering that laughter, music and solitude are not wants, they're needs

How about you…what commitment are you making to the new year and yourself?

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11 comments on “Erma Bombeck is my New Year’s inspiration?

  1. Karin H. says:

    Happy New Year Drew!

    We’re committed to keep our business on track this year, despite or thanks to – you never know! – the predicted worsening economical climate.
    Personal: write that second book that’s in my head for over a year now!

    Karin H. (Keep It Simple Sweetheart, specially in business)

  2. Tom says:

    When will you be in the DFW area ?
    maybe, we can meet up. Nowami.org
    nowrichman@blogspot.com
    Millionaire makers days

  3. Karin,

    Can you tell us a little about the book?

    Drew

  4. Tom,

    I’m sure I’ll be there sometime in 2009! I seem to travel from stem to stern.

    Drew

  5. Lew,

    Thanks for the nudge to give this more thought. Agreed..without the family and friends part, the rest is awfully meaningless.

    Drew

  6. Karin H. says:

    Oh well, a little bit then 😉
    The work-title is: Marketing for NCO’s (New Customers Only)
    but not what you think. It’s not about ignoring your faithful existing clients by offering better deals only to New Customers – it’s about a type of business most marketing advice books ignore 😉

    Karin H. (Keep It Simple Sweetheart, specially in business)

  7. Cyndi says:

    As always, a great article, Drew. I have to work a little less than 14- to 16-hour days and “remember that laughter, music and solitude are not wants, they’re needs.” I’m a virtual assistant and never see people face to face but I’m going to get out there this year and participate in some in-person networking.

  8. Karin,

    Ohhh, now you have me intrigued. I can’t wait until you can tell us more!

    Drew

  9. Cyndi,

    Those all sound like very worthy goals. I would guess that the face to face interactions will be a nice balance to all of your virtual work.

    How are you going to cut back on the hours? (I might need to steal some of your suggestions!)

    Drew

  10. Cyndi says:

    I guess the only answer to cutting back hours is to grow my business (oxymoron) and sub out some work!

  11. Cyndi,

    If you’re working 14-16 hour days, could you do a little of that now?

    Drew

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