We began 2009 with an anticipation of change. Does it feel like we are back to the same old things? After the enjoyment of the holidays, we are seeing sparks of hope and optimism that the rough patches of 2008 are behind us. Many of us have ambitious plans to making real changes. Following through on resolutions is helping us achieve success in the New Year.

Is the New Year keeping up with your expectations? Changes are happening. The Bank of Canada’s deep interest rate cuts will stimulate credit flow, having a positive impact on the economic outlook for 2009. The federal government’s tax-free savings account will help save money. We have yet to see what impact the upcoming stimulus package will have. The hope US President Barack Obama has been calling for seems to be materializing all around us, for Canadians at least.

We have found this to be a good time to align with our goals. We are working hard to help encourage positive growth by making sure we set attainable goals. We are remaining disciplined while visualizing accomplishing them and making sure we have a plan for setbacks. We are entering the Chinese Year of the Ox, which embodies the spirit of steady persevering patience, while inspiring confidence in others. This is a great time to set plans to plough through for long term growth. We can all accomplish whatever we like, whenever we choose.

Progress is steadily happening. A theme of realizing new resolutions seems to be echoing across the world. What positive steps are you taking? How are you modifying your behaviours to be more in line with what’s happening in the world? Will developing habits that are more mindful of our surroundings and present in the moment help us move forward with our objectives?