The month of January takes its name from the Roman god Janus, the god of doorways, transitions, endings and new beginnings. At this time of year, as we make the transition from one year to the next, leaders need to “make like Janus” and pay attention to both the endings and new beginnings happening in the life of their organizations.

It is tempting to give short shrift to the endings and forge ahead into the future with all our New Year’s-resolution-fueled energy. But seasoned leaders know that damage can result when the past is left unresolved.

As we navigate through these dark days of winter, take some time to consider what you need to let go of or say goodbye to:

• Are there unfinished tasks that are burdening you and the organization? Which of these are important to complete, and which need to be let go?
• In working relationships, are there residual hurts or dysfunctional behavior that burden the organization? Are these relationships important enough to resolve the conflicts, or do they need to be let go?

Once we deal with what is ending, we are free to dream, to be “10 times bolder” in our plans for our new beginnings. As one way to start that planning, begin with the end in mind: imagine you are at the end of 2010 and looking back. What are the accomplishments you are most proud of?

In a very real sense, organizations exist in a state of constant transition—something is always changing, ending or just getting started, and the effective leader will be attuned to the dynamics of those transitions all year long. These first days of January, however, offer a special opportunity to step back and gain some perspective on yourself as well as the major changes the organization has had and will experience as you move from 2009 to 2010. Spend some time affirming the good you helped your organization to accomplish and be gentle with yourself as you reflect on your struggles. In addition, take a few minutes to consult with yourself about your deepest hopes for 2010 and include these in the goals you set for the coming year.

When appropriate attention is paid both to what is ending and what is waiting to begin, you set the stage for a very Happy New Year.

John Reid, Senior Consultant
The Reid Group