As the New Year begins, like many of you, I find myself thinking about resolutions. We often have good intentions, but somehow, we don’t always follow through. Sometimes, it’s because we procrastinate (this kind of applies to me; just ask my wife) or get distracted. Even with the best intentions, things can easily go off track.

Recently, I decided to cut back on watching TV. Instead, I picked up my Kindle and started reading again. This year, my resolution is to spend less time in front of the screen and more time enjoying a good book. Right now, I’m reading It’s Not About You by Tom Rath. It’s a short, easy read that focuses on three important lessons anyone, no matter how old, can learn from if they keep an open mind.

Get Over Yourself- These three words can pack a powerful message.

Invest in the People Who Matter Most- Building strong relationships or reconnecting friendships we have let slip away.

Focus on what will Grow After we are Gone- Live a life that contributes to something bigger than ourselves. One might call this our Legacy.

I’ll admit I need to continue to work on all three of these steps. As the publisher of this magazine, I’ve learned a lot over the years, and I’m still learning something new every day. One of my biggest ongoing lessons has been the joy of helping small businesses and charities. Seeing the impact of kind words and showing genuine interest in others has been incredibly rewarding.

So often, I sit in front of my computer and have no idea what I am going to write in my publisher’s notes; and then it happens. I would like to believe I am starting to take in some of the lessons we just talked about, and that I will continue to grow.

Thanks for listening, and Happy New Year,

Bryan McDonough / publisher Spotlight Magazine Inc.