Implicitly, a new year inspires the desire for change. It promises untold opportunities in the 12 months ahead. What's possible for you in the next 12 months? A new career? The completion of a special project like that book you want to write, the weight you want to lose, or maybe the relationship you'd like to find? What inspires you to make a true and lasting change, or to accomplish something big?

Connecting with your values can often provide the inspiration for change. What's most important to you in your life? Family, fun, honesty, adventure, beauty -- the possibilities are endless. The hallmark of a true value is that your life would be out of integrity if you did not respect the value or allowed it to be compromised. Once you know your values, you can measure choices against them. Does your decision respect your core values? If so, you will be inspired to naturally move forward.

Anchor Time

February can be a month of blahs. It's mid-winter and the only holidays concern dead presidents, small rodents and significant others - which can be painful if you don't have one. So how do you get or stay inspired when things seem pretty dull? Carve out some anchor time.

Anchor time involves planning space for yourself to do something that you absolutely love doing. It should be an activity that wakes up all your senses and allows you to feel really connected to life. It re-establishes perspective - reminds you that you have purpose, that you're unique, that you have much to offer and receive.

For me, hiking in the mountains is anchor time. I love the physical exertion, the feeling of vastness, and the sense of peace and quiet. I instantly start feeling hopeful, like I can truly take a deep breath (which, incidentally is in the definition of inspiration), and then my creativity kicks in. Suddenly my world seems full of possibilities, and my only challenge is to decide what to do first.

What's your anchor activity? When will you plan time this month to indulge? Don't make it an option. Give yourself a gift of love and plan some anchor time.