As the year kicks off, a lot of aspirations and goals are set to be achieved. Statistics show that less than 50% of these goals are achieved regardless of the genuine intentions behind them. This can be traced to the challenge that a lot of people believe that a new year is usually a new slate to start everything afresh, although the trueness of this statement cannot be ruled out, it is expedient to know that a new year can be a year of mastery of skills learned the previous years, it can also be a year of expanding a baby idea to a giant outcome. There is no rule anywhere that one must start up something new yearly. The amazing breakthrough might be mastery of your art and that will be your life’s GAME CHANGER.
RULES FOR THE GAME CHANGERS
Game changers in the context of this article are go-getters, achievers, and resilient successors. Just as every game has its rules, the game-changers and go-getters of life equally have their unique rules set. Achieving greatness is a journey marked by specific behaviors that set individuals apart. Whether in personal development, career, or relationships, adopting certain habits can pave the way for success.
Here are some key rules for game-changers;
1. Be a Lifetime Learner:
Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” It can’t be truer than this, as you step out to be a game changer this year and in different areas of your life, you must embrace the mindset of perpetual learning. Great individuals are avid readers, always seeking new knowledge and insights. They understand that growth is a lifelong process, and they actively pursue opportunities to expand their understanding. Listen to podcasts related to your area of growth, get hardcopy books or audiobooks, and dedicate time to reading and getting new ideas daily. At least read a chapter of a book daily and watch yourself transform.
2. Build Resilience:
Challenges are part of life and they can either make or mar us this is dependent on our mindset and our approach towards it. Greatness often emerges from adversity. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Resilient individuals navigate setbacks with a positive mindset, using failures as stepping stones toward success. Remember even the eagles have to break from their shells as eggs to soar. Winston Churchill “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”
3. Set SMART goals:
“The tragedy in life doesn’t lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach.” – Benjamin Mays. Set clear and ambitious goals. Greatness is often fueled by a sense of purpose and direction. Break down long-term objectives into smaller, actionable steps, and stay committed to the journey. Your goals must be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound.
4. Effective Time Management:
Time is a precious resource to humanity and must be used with every bit of consciousness. Great individuals prioritize tasks, focus on what matters, and avoid procrastination. Efficient time management allows for the pursuit of meaningful goals without being overwhelmed. Getting productivity apps and using Google Calendars to apportion time to your activities daily can help you manage your time. It is most advisable to plan your day a night ahead. Remember Williams Penn’s quote Time is what we want most, but what we use worst.” do not be a victim of this quote.
5. Adaptability and Innovation:
Change is the only constant in life and those who can be effective game-changers in life must learn the effective art of adapting to new environments and circumstances at ease. In the words of Charles Darwin, “It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.” The ability to adapt to change and embrace innovation is crucial for greatness. Successful individuals are open to new ideas, technologies, and methodologies, constantly seeking ways to improve and evolve.
6. Empathy and Collaboration:
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller. Game changers know that one of their greatest rules in life is collaboration as one cannot do life alone and in other to achieve that you must always place yourself in people’s shoes and this is where empathy is placed. Building positive relationships is a cornerstone of greatness. Cultivate empathy and effective communication skills. Collaborate with others, recognizing the value of diverse perspectives and leveraging collective strengths.
7. Consistent Self Accountability:
famous words of Socrates, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” Regularly assess your progress and identify areas for improvement. Great individuals engage in introspection, acknowledging strengths and weaknesses to refine their approach and continuously evolve. Get accountability partners and seek mentorship from people who are advanced in areas you want to grow in life. This will keep you on your toes and help you be an effective game changer.
8. Audacious Decision-Making:
The comfort zone is a mirage for success, greatness often requires making tough decisions. Develop the courage to take calculated risks, stepping outside your comfort zone when necessary. Bold decisions can lead to breakthroughs and new opportunities. “You can’t make decisions based on fear and the possibility of what might happen.” – Michelle Obama
9. Sound Mental and Physical Health:
Game changers are known for sound decision-making and this can only be effective if priority is placed on your health and well-being. Great individuals understand the importance of maintaining both mental and physical wellness, as it directly impacts their ability to perform at their best. As Mahatma Gandhi quips “It is health that is real wealth, and not pieces of gold and silver.”
10. Consistency and Discipline:
Game Changers are not procrastinators, they are disciplined and consistent in pursuit of their course. Consistency is key to achieving greatness. Develop disciplined routines that align with your goals. Success is often the result of small, consistent actions repeated over time. Success is neither magical nor mysterious. Success is the natural consequence of consistently applying fundamentals.” – Jim Rohn
The ten rules outlined are mandatory for game changers as they will help navigate one toward the right course of pursuit in achieving whatever you have set out for the year. These behaviors for greatness are not innate but cultivated through conscious effort and dedication. By adopting them, individuals can pave the way for personal and professional success, unlocking their full potential on the path to greatness.
I am rooting for you as you become the Game Changer in your field of endeavor!
