February is National Plant the Seeds of Greatness Month. Its focus is improving quality of life by encouraging reflection on aspects of everyday living that make an important personal difference. Plant your seeds of greatness now to watch them bloom all year long.

Assess your situation: Set aside time with a clear mind to reflect on any desired changes. Make a list of short-term objectives and long-term goals.

Examine key areas of your life: Whether an issue is personal, such as health, finances, relationships, emotional wellbeing or whether an issue is professional, take time to reflect on how you feel. Write out your thoughts without self-judgment and remember that you don't need to tackle everything all at once.

Identify barriers to happiness: What is upsetting you currently? Write down what is standing in the way of optimal living. Some things you will have direct control over, others you will not. Focus on what you CAN do.

Be mindful: Consider your emotions throughout the day. Where can you make positive changes that will result in a higher number of positive moments? You have  tremendous capacity to bring a positive outlook into your own life!

Decide where to focus your efforts: Although many items may make your list, prioritize which life issues are worth investing in now to resolve from a financial and time management perspective.

Map out the commitment: Does your choice require money, time or both? Create a budget and a timeline with a margin of flexibility in both, the soil for your seeds of greatness to grow.

Outline three ways you will plan ahead for happiness: Set your intention then make it tangible with three ways you can put theory into practice immediately.

Look ahead to water your seeds: Decide on next steps and schedule them into your 2023 calendar.

Create mini-rewards: Every seed needs sunshine to grow. Add small rewards to your plan.  Having something to look forward to is essential to stay motivated.

Give yourself time: All plants bloom at different times. Add in grace for days when you cannot nurture the seeds of change.

Recognize the garden you’ve grown: When you see change, give yourself credit. Never underestimate the power of a determined mindset. Choose to see your own beauty, even if the growing process has less elegant phases.