Before your construction year become too hectic consider these 4 thoughts

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Wow, what happened to 2017? It seems just the other day that we started 2017, now it’s all gone.

How was 2017 for you? For some it was a disaster, many were disappointed, most it was ok, and a few had a terrific 2017.

What will 2018 bring for you?

I’m sure most of you have had a hectic few weeks, rushing to finish off the last work for the year, then Christmas, parties, time with friends and family, the New Year, now it’s back to work!

Have you had any time for yourself?

Before you know it you’ll be well into 2018, then all too soon you’ll be starting 2019. Pause for a few minutes. Take some time out. Take a deep breath. Make some time for you.

Consider these thoughts before 2018 swamps you.

1. Look back on 2017. Consider what went right. What went wrong, and why did it go wrong? Sure, it’s easy to blame something else, or someone else. But be realistic. What could you have done better? What should you have done better? Don’t make the same mistakes in 2018.
2. Be thankful. It’s easy to only remember the things that went badly. But we should all be thankful for the many things that worked out ok. But more importantly we should be thankful for the team, clients, subcontractors, suppliers and family that helped us through 2017. Remember to wish everyone a happy and successful 2018, but also thank them for helping out in 2017. A little bit of appreciation goes a long way. A little thankfulness is good for the soul and it will put 2017 into a better perspective.
3. Have you got a plan for 2018? What will you do to make 2018 successful? How will you find more skilled people for your projects and company? How will you retain your good people? How will you find good projects and clients? How will you improve cash flow? How will you make your projects more profitable and successful? How will you become more successful? How will you spend more time with your family? How will you become healthier and happier? What’s your plan? It’s pointless wishing for all these good things and its pointless having great New Year’s resolutions if you don’t have a plan. What will you change in 2018? How will you make 2018 a successful great year?
4. Are you ready for the changes and challenges in 2018? Sure 2017 was challenging, but 2018 will be as challenging. Indeed, the World is moving so fast that there will be new challenges. Have you anticipated some of these changes? How will new technology impact your projects in 2018? How will the changed business conditions impact your company in 2018? Be proactive and start making the necessary changes now. These may include engaging with new technology, employing additional resources, improving your skills, looking at different clients, areas and fields of construction.

Conclusion
Don’t look back on 2018 with regrets. Take some time out to plan 2018, then remember to make time during 2018 to measure progress of your plan. Don’t let the trials and tribulations of 2018 drown your good intentions and your aspirations.

What will you do to make 2018 successful?

Wishing you a happy and successful 2018.
Thank you to all my readers for your support in 2017. You made 2017 a great year for me.

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​This article is adapted from information in the author’s popular books: 'Successful Construction Project Management: The Practical Guide' and 'Building a Successful Construction Company: The Practical Guide' and 'Construction Project Management: Tips and Insights'
'Construction Claims: A Short Guide for Contractors' is another of Paul's useful books.
Paul has recently published 'Construction Management: From Project Concept to completion'.
These books are available on Amazon and other online book stores.
Paul publishes articles regularly on LinkedIn and his website. 

Paul writes regular articles for other websites, gives lectures, mentors, and is available for podcasts and interviews.
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© 2018 This article is not to be reproduced for commercial purposes without written permission from the author.