President Message
New York Metropolitan Chapter President 2009-2010
Pedro Lima, ASID, CID
As 2010 begins, most of us wish farewell to 2009 with a sigh of relief! For many of us, the current economic changes have had profound effects. Changes like this can be traumatic, and trying to rebound and come out ahead is challenging. As things have slowed down for most, it does allow us the opportunity to reflect on our situation. In doing so, I would like to share with you some of my thoughts that have helped me to stay positive and forward thinking. I hope these thoughts can offer you food for thought and encouragement.
Firstly, focus on the future. In looking back, we loose out on present opportunities, impeding us from moving forward. This doesn't mean we don't think about the past. Rather we can use our experiences to find new opportunities, make new connections, and look for ways that we can reinvent ourselves and achieve personal growth.
Live in the present, and allow yourself to dream of what might be if you put your plans into action now. Goal setting is another wonderful way of ensuring progress and satisfaction. Staying organized, and working on specific tasks to achieve our goals is essential. Don't feel that your goals have to be monumental. Sometimes reaching smaller goals with consistency is just as satisfying as major achievements.
Following my intuition and trusting in myself has been a great strength for me as well. Really identifying what is both logical and "feels right" is a sure way to be confident in our choices. I always find great satisfaction and self esteem when I follow my instincts, and pursue things that I truly find worthwhile. In this way I feel that I've been "true to self", which is a very important value of mine, especially as a creative person.
Another incredible way to be positive and forwarding thinking is to be truthful with ourselves. Be honest with ourselves is critical in order to evaluate our situation, and make progress towards our goals.
Take a moment to answer these questions to yourself:
- What are my best qualities and strengths?
- Am I maximizing and utilizing my strengths?
- How can I use these qualities to get ahead, and feel happier and more fulfilled?
- How can I set myself apart as I compete in the marketplace using these strengths?
Staying positive and forward thinking will lead to a richer life, with greater self-esteem and satisfaction. By focusing on the future, and working to achieve our goals, this coming year will be full of new opportunities. Trust your instincts as you set your goals, and be truthful and honest with yourself as you evaluate how you can use your strengths to find greater fulfillment.
I wish everyone success as we work to enrich our lives and stay positive!
