There’s something to be said about fresh starts and new beginnings.  A blanket of fresh powder and a set of skis assure a thrill. A receding tide and beach offer a place for solitude and peace. The start of a new semester offers good intentions for high grades and success. It is no wonder that with the turn of a calendar’s page from one year to the next, we set resolutions to become better people.

We promise to diet, to exercise, to eat healthier, or to manifest the job we love. There is no end to the promises, though I wonder how many of us actually check in to see how we’re measuring up. Last year I made some promises to our customers and I have tried to check in from time to time, and I can see where we’ve made strides and where we can stand to improve. Those resolutions were:

• Value the human factor. Since most decision-making grids are unable to value the human factor, we promised to factor in loyalty, reputation, ethics and other human aspects that can’t be measured.
• Common courtesy. We pledged to be courteous by turning off our smart phones when meeting our customers.
• The phone. Even when it’s easier to send an email – we set out to use the telephone from time to time, to personally reach out to our customers.
• A handshake. We wanted to meet with our customers personally, and reserve teleconferencing technologies, like Skype for emergencies.

This year I’ll continue making efforts in these areas as well, but I’ll also add:

"I'm making time for me! If I'm not in perfect health how can I tend to the needs of my customers and employees?"

• Make time for me. Make time on my calendar for myself because if I’m not in perfect health or balance, I will not serve my customers and employees in the manner they deserve.  
• Give.  Give back to the community or association and/or mentor a student because we have a responsibility to prepare Gen Y or the Millennials.
• Reflection. I will practice the art of reflection by devoting quiet time to reflect on situations which deserve my attention and need decisions.  
• Appreciate. Appreciate where I am because when you appreciate what you have, you receive more to appreciate.  

These are my simple business resolutions for 2012, as well as the promise to provide the best customer service to my clients, and serve my principals with honor.