Here we are in 2010. 2009 has been a challenging year for all of us. I haven’t met anyone who has not been affected by the economy in one way or another. Many businesses have had to lay off employees, others have been forced out of business. Because of these changes the businesses that have managed to stay afloat have two things in common. As a concierge, I serve individuals and businesses and that’s how I learned about this commonalities.  These individuals and business owners are very well aware of the value of their time and they all had mentors. As a matter of fact, when I meet a new client, I ask them the question: “How much is your time worth?” Every single client gave me a dollar figure immediately. That was shocking to me. They also knew the tasks that were just getting “in the way” of their life. They also understood the value of time spent with family, reading, playing golf or tennis, sailing, or working out. So how can this help all of us in 2010?  

Here’s how to improve your professional life in 2010. The New Year always invites resolutions.   Resolutions are great, but not always attainable. So why not take action: Come up with the value of your time and find a great Mentor. Compile a list of the things you want to improve in the upcoming year. Find yourself a mentor who will guide you through your list of improvements and help you to realize your changes. Your mentor will educate you, challenge you, make you accountable, and most important your mentor will support your changes. You will learn how to manage your time, focus on your topic, and evaluate your progress. Your mentor will force you to see things in a different way and offer you practical solutions to some of your challenges. Remember, they were once where you are now. The things that you learn from your mentor will be extremely beneficial to your professional life.  

Now for your personal life. You have made huge advancements in your professional life by working with your mentor. These changes can’t help but transfer to your personal life. You are now thinking differently, you’re managing your time more effectively and you recognize the value of your time. You now know that taking time away to relax and enjoy your friends and family will increase your productivity at work and make you generally happier. You will find yourself scheduling your workouts, your golf games and your social outings. You will be amazed that you are able to find the time for fun that was never there before.

 I meet with my Mentor once a month. I can tell you, it has changed both my professional and personal life. I know it will do the same for you. Enjoy 2010!