Five, four, three, two, one…Happy New Year!   Now that the ball has dropped, the celebrations are behind us and the new year has begun, it’s time to reflect on last year’s experiences.   As men, let’s stop and evaluate who and where we are in life right now.

As defined by Webster’s dictionary, “to evaluate is to judge or determine the significance, worth, or condition of usually by careful appraisal and study.”    In life, we are always being evaluated.   On our job, an annual performance appraisal evaluates how well we perform our duties, in school; periodic tests and exams assess how well we’ve master subject matters, and during training sessions, questionnaires are used to evaluate the effectiveness of training objectives.

Aside from standard methods of evaluation, some may consider Father’s Day as an evaluation of how well we have been a father to their children.  If we are married, our wedding anniversary may lend itself to our wife showing appreciation for the great job we may have done taking care of her and our family.

Whether we realize it or not, someone is always evaluating us and forming an opinion about our image, conduct or actions.    If done right, these and other evaluation tools can provide meaningful feedback to become better at who we are, what we do and how to achieve more.

It’s common to be evaluated by others, but have you ever stopped to consider your significance, worth or status as a man?   By conducting a self-evaluation, you can determine areas for improvement and how well you have performed your role as a provider and protector of your family. To help with your self-evaluation, here are three simple questions to consider and reflect on:

1. Did what you spend your time, money and energy on last year, bring you closer to achieving your goals.
2. What steps have you taken to make your life, situation, and home a happy one?
3. What, if anything have you accomplished that added to your personal development, i.e., school, new skills?

If you are not who or where you want to be or didn’t accomplish all that you’d hoped for last year, don’t beat yourself up.   The new year provides 365 days for you to put your dreams, goals, and passion into action so that you can become the Man you are destined to be.

Start today by creating a game plan to reach your goals.  As quoted by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, “A goal without a plan is just a wish.”   Consider what you want to achieve and focus your energy and efforts on making it happen – this may require letting go of certain things and people if they hinder your progress. But that’s o.k.

Think about it –  Another Year – Another Chance!  You can take advantage of the opportunity, or you can sit back and watch the new year pass you by.   The choice is yours to make!

As you take steps to becoming a better Man – looking forward- and inward- don’t let your C.H.O.I.C.E.S hinder your chances.   Remember to Choose Healthy Options that Instill Character in Every Situation!

Now we want to know, what small action will you commit to, right now, to get started on your personal development? Please share in the comments!