You may have noticed a slight change in title for this month’s list, again it’s an idea I pinched of the internet, but in the name of all things January and New Yearish I thought this year, instead of a list of things to do as resolutions, I would BE instead.

1. BE BRAVE

I saw this sign in a shop in London last summer and often look back on it. While I stepped out of my comfort zone in 2015 I want to leap this year, I’ve been in my present job for nearly ten years and it’s time for a shake up…I’m not sure what or how yet, but watch this space for news!

2. BE OBSERVANT

This year I plan more walks in the park and I want to take the time to look around, not just at flowers but also at the people around me.

3. BE ORGANISED

I’m always dashing around, sending emails without the necessary document attached, not checking dates and over-booking, this year I plan to slow down, spend more time on the details and more importantly, organise my time better.

4. BE REFLECTIVE

The French have the expression “se remettre en question”, to question oneself, and this is an essential part of me and my teaching. How sad if each experience was isolated, and didn’t lead to improvement in other domaines. Unfortunately not everyone I work with feels this way and that is why I will have to add a couple of actions to my list:

• AVOID THE MOOD HOOVERS! – You know those people who suck all joy from you with their incessant complaining.
• Continue learning – I’ve already registered for a couple of webinars about getting set for success and teaching mixed-ability classes

5. BE PRESENT

I’m too hyperactive to get into meditation and mindfulness, although it would probably do me the world of good. However reading a book by Shona Rhimes (which I wouldn’t recommend by the way, but that’s my opinion) I came across the idea of 15 minutes.

Shona’s point was that when her children wanted her attention and she was too busy with something else,15 minutes isn’t much really, but it’s often enough.

She has a point, no matter how busy you are, you can spare 15 minutes for a friend who needs to chat, a child who wants help, often it takes even less, but by offering those minutes you can really be there.

So, that’s my to-be list for this year, what’s yours?