One of the processes I do with my clients is for them to create a Vision Story. A Vision Story is a story about where they are in the future. It might be taking place in 10 years, 5 years, 1 year or even a particular event that is coming up like a workshop they are leading or a wedding.

They write as though it as already happened. So, for example.....my 1 year Vision Story starts with .....I am sitting here on the deck on Christmas morning 2006 reveling in the quiet before the boys wake up to open their presents. I am thinking back about the events that have happened over the past year......And then I go into detail describing what happened over the last year - the successful business partnerships, my ebook launch, my wedding, buying a new house....it feels very real and alive.

It's habit for us to think about setting goals or resolutions for the New Year. This year try something new and different - write a simple story. Remember it's not about it being perfect...it's about using your language, your way of talking and making it real.

Daniel Pink, author of "A Whole New Mind" (and one of my current favorites!), cites "Story" as one of the top 6 attributes for success in the coming years. As more and more left brain analytical functions get technological-ized what's going to be at a premium are the right brain functions of design, play, meaning, symphony, empathy and STORY. As a fast moving society we are getting tired of bullet points and info-bites. We want some depth and richness in our relationships with each other and ourselves.

Many of my clients roll their eyes at the thought of setting goals or else, it's a "should". Laura, let's talk about goals because I "should " have them. Instead we use story to make the accomplishments more compelling, more real, they have more substance....and therefore, are more likely to be done!

The cool thing is when you write them in a rich juicy detailed story - it's more fun to share them with friends and collegues. It's still a vulnerable thing to do - sharing our dreams always is - and yet, they are much more compelling in this form. The magical piece is that once you write your story, and then start sharing your story....the universe starts attracting exactly what you want. Opportunities, meetings, support, assistance in unlikely places and from unlikely people just start showing up!

As my fiance, Marc & I shared the story of our upcoming wedding - it's fraught with technicalities around Homeland Security and Immigration details....and as we told the story of what we really wanted...a simple wedding that we love filled with beauty, on the ocean, and celebrated with friends (not a quick City Hall because we have to get it done on the list of required immigration paperwork) - all sorts of friends have started offering to help coordinate the plans, sent emails of links to beautiful oceanside retreats, etc....  It's the power of sharing your story and noticing what starts to show up!

So, what is the story you want to be telling next New Year's Eve when you look back over the last year?  And, then dare to share a rich juicy story with a trusted friend or partner.....and you are on your path to making it real.

Cheers to making the story real,

Laura