The Hype Cycle - a boom, bust and echo-esque graphical representation of how technology adapts and evolves over time is a poignant analogy for our transition from 2020 to 2021.

1. Trigger:

 

The New Year.

 

2. Peak of Inflated Expectations:

 

After the hangover dissipates and the multiple buffets are digested, we aim to cut out carbs, drink less and achieve that mystical work-life balance while doing yoga and volunteering at our local charity. We create multiple unrealistic notions that it’s going to be a year full of #smashinggoals central and endless fist pumps.

 

Don’t get me wrong, I’m loving the combination of optimistic positivity and energising confidence that I’m seeing.

 

But… not to be a negative Nancy, unless you have strategies and concrete programs in place, these feelings and thoughts simply won’t turn into actual action.

 

Without that action, 2021, the year of change, simply won’t be.

 

So, what’s going to happen if those goals don’t come to fruition? 

 

3. The Trough of Disillusionment

 

“Oops I did it again” is not just a Britney thing. At this point, we’re emotionally drained and burdened by disappointment.

 

And you know what? This trend is far from new.

 

Each year, we have #newyearsresolutions that simply don’t work out as planned because we haven’t thought through how we’re going to implement and make sustainable change. 

 

Let’s be honest, how many times have you started off the new year with a new diet goal and by January 3rd you’re already eating the chocolate? How many times have you said “I’ll start it on Monday” and it’s only Wednesday? (Stay tuned for my New Years blog!) 

 

How can you avoid getting caught in the roller coaster ride of expectations and disappointments, and enjoy a flatter but more productive rise to the top?

 

 

It’s a little something I like to call ‘expectation management’ that skips the peaks and troughs and enables us to be productive badasses.

 

What are expectations? 

 

Some people believe “expectations are premeditated resentments”.  I believe this is true when your expectations are unrealistic or unplanned. 

 

Regardless, how do we create realistic expectations?

 

1. Base them on past performance

 

Expectations are often based on prior experiences. Reflect on your previous goals and what made them successful or unsuccessful. If for the past 20 years you have never, ever stuck to a diet - why would this year be different?

 

2. Vocalise your expectations

 

Saying things out loud to a trusted friend quickly puts things into perspective. As an example, in my own mind, each year I am quite sure that Beyonce and I will become best friends. Saying this out loud to my partner typically brings me back to earth. Become accountable by communicating out-loud to another human being (not just your dog) what your 2021 expectations are.

 

3. Do a pre-mortum

 

While many ‘life coaches’ say that having a plan B is planning to fail, I will continue to stick to my realistic roots and wonder what the hell they’re smoking. More often than not, things don’t work out as planned. That’s why I always do a pre-mortum on any significant plans. What could go wrong? If it does go wrong, what will I do? 

 

4. Learn to be agile, not angry

 

This is super important, especially when things go wrong (refer to #3). Things WILL NOT go to plan (sorry Miss Perfectionist) and when they do, understand that your human emotions will try and run the show. My tip? Notice these emotions and learn from them, but don’t get stuck inside of them.

 

5. Ask for help

 

If you’re about to skip over this tip, then you especially need to read it. I see you! Because I am you! As much as we would like to be able to do it all on our own, we’re only human. Sometimes we need a helping hand to make our goals come to life. And always remember: it’s never a pain to offer help to those we care about, so accept it knowing it’s (likely) coming from the heart.

 

Wishing everyone a safe holiday - and ending with a face-palming holiday dad joke:

 

What do you call Father Christmas on the beach?

 

Sandy Claus!

 

Dr Katherine

 

P.S. If you’re looking to jump start 2021 by hitting the ground running with the resilience to respond to both opportunity or adversity, get in touch with the Dr Katherine team to see how we can make your goals come to fruition - with mentoring, team programs and a brand new activator series.