Ditch Resolutions and Embrace Continuous Improvement

Happy New Year! As we dive into another year full of possibilities, let’s take a moment to rethink how we approach growth and progress. If you’ve been following me for a while, you know I’m not a fan of traditional goal-setting or New Year’s resolutions. Instead, I champion Kaizen—the art of continuous, incremental improvement.

Why do resolutions often fail? They tend to rely on monumental shifts, which can feel daunting and unsustainable. Kaizen, on the other hand, focuses on manageable, daily steps toward growth. This approach helps you stay consistent, adaptable, and, most importantly, effective.

Take learning, for example. Each year, I challenge myself to pick up a new skill—not just for the practicality, but for the mindset shift it brings. Last year, I aimed to learn hog butchery—not because I planned to pivot careers but to better understand the origins of our food. While I didn’t complete the goal due to logistical challenges, I gained invaluable insights into the effort and knowledge behind the food we consume. Even the pursuit itself was a lesson in humility and growth.

What Does Growth Look Like in Practice?

Recently, I experienced two very different customer service interactions that exemplified the importance of thoughtful systems. Two major brands—Anthropologie and Crate & Barrel—offered text-based customer service, which was seamless and effective. I’d send a message, and their team would respond asynchronously, allowing me to step away and focus on other tasks without being tethered to a phone call.

On the other hand, a smaller retailer I found via TikTok failed to deliver—literally. They outsourced their shipping to a company that offered no clear resolution when my package went missing. Their lack of ownership and poor communication created frustration, wasted time, and ultimately lost my trust.

The takeaway? Asynchronous communication—like text-based customer service—is a game-changer. It’s flexible, scalable, and ensures customers feel heard without forcing real-time engagement. Whether you’re running a multinational corporation or a small startup, integrating systems that prioritize user convenience builds trust and efficiency.

How Kaizen Applies to Business and Life

The beauty of Kaizen is its universal application. Whether you’re learning a new skill, optimizing a business process, or simply improving your daily routines, the focus is on consistent, small wins.

For example:

• In Business: Implement tools or practices that save time and energy for both your team and your clients. Think of ways to automate or outsource repetitive tasks to free up your capacity for high-value work.
• In Skills: Choose something you’ve always wanted to learn—whether it’s coding, cooking, or public speaking—and dedicate just 10 minutes a day to it. Progress compounds.
• In Communication: Explore how asynchronous communication can streamline interactions. Use apps, systems, and workflows that allow flexibility while maintaining responsiveness.
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Your Challenge for 2025

What’s one area of your life or business where you can make a 1% improvement today? Is it learning a skill, setting up a system, or simply saying no to something that drains your energy? Small, consistent efforts often lead to exponential results, far beyond what a single resolution could achieve.

Remember, growth happens when we stay curious, uncomfortable, and committed to trying new things. This year, don’t let the fear of imperfection stop you from starting. Kaizen is all about progress, not perfection.

Let’s make this year a masterpiece—one small step at a time.

Wishing you a year of intentional growth and meaningful achievements!

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