It’s the beginning of 2011, and if you’re like us, you are taking some time to think about what you want out of this next year. 
As Arnold Glasgow said, “In life, as in football, you won’t go far unless you know where the goalposts are.” We pooled a batch of nationally recognized designers, and have compiled some of their resolutions below.
CHANGE FROM WITHIN
“It is interesting that everyone is talking about the idea that the economy is turning around. That may be true but more importantly than waiting for something to change is the need for a change from within. Our future is always more promising if we adapt to new ideas and ways. It’s time for a cultural change.” –LPA CEO Bob Kupper, AIA, LEED AP
“My work related resolutions for 2011 are (in no particular order) … Be more diligent in reducing my paper volume by thinking before printing, scanning, e-filing and recycling. And to use my inside voice.” –LPA Associate Brandon de Arakal, AIA, LEED AP
PAY IT FORWARD
“In 2011, I want to develop more educational opportunities (to improve the quality of our work), and I want to mentor more.” –LPA Principal Steven Kendrick, AIA, LEED AP
“In 2011, we will continue to make sustainable architecture and engineering available to a larger segment of the U.S. Government. I will keep my desk clean; travel to a developing country and assist in an eco-friendly building solution that improves an existing condition; keep my desk clean; be more aware of my co-workers during the year; enjoy the process more; communicate appreciation; allow education to happen and share practical insight together for the common good of the projects –all while keeping my desk clean.” –LPA Associate Damon Dusterhoft, AIA, LEED AP
SEEK INSPIRATION
“Aside from getting my timesheets done on time, this year I definitely want to take more opportunity to be inspired. Maybe let go of some of the small details and zoom out a bit.” –LPA Interior Designer Kate Mraw, LEED AP
PRIORITIZE RUTHLESSLY
“My New Year’s work related resolution is: I will prioritize ruthlessly through the art of delegation and accountability.” –LPA Principal Steve Flanagan, AIA, LEED AP
“In 2011, I am resolving to do a better job of maintaining my client relationships with more frequent phone calls, checking in, etc. It’s all about building trust. I am also resolving to maintain a more positive attitude, with clients as well as internally with LPA staff –with focus on improving my customer service and leadership skills.” –LPA Associate David Eaves, AIA, LEED AP
INCREASE EFFICIENCY
“For 2011, LPA’s Energy Services will continue to focus on reducing client energy bills. This will put operating dollars back into our clients’ pockets that can be better spent on their main line of business. We are now offering commissioning for LEED, CHPS and CALGreen code compliance as well as retro-commissioning for existing buildings. Simultaneously, we are building our analytical tools to streamline economic and energy performance analyses for new design as well as retrofit energy conservation measures.” –LPA Energy Services Director Jim Maclay, Ph.D., LEED AP
“In 2011, we want to help our project teams bring closure to issues as soon as possible. Predicaments can be both positive and negative, and regardless of their origin issues that are solved in a timely manner have a tendency to have a better outcome. A quick explanation and resolution create better opportunities for success.” –LPA Principal Chris Torrey, AIA, LEED AP
“In 2011, I want to increase the number of civic, and parks and recreation projects we win; have a meaningful role in contributing to LPA’s operational and financial performance; increase my expertise and capabilities in delivering site design for meaningful, creative and sustainable projects; and lastly, get this darn cast off my hand.” –LPA Principal Kevin Sullivan, ASLA, LEED AP
David Gilmore has been active in the architectural design industry for more than 30 years. His expertise shines in K-12 schools, urban planning, commercial, retail, institutional, mixed-use and public architectural design. He is an active member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), and the Coalition for Adequate School Housing (C.A.S.H).
LINKS
http://sbinfocanada.about.com/cs/management/a/bizresolutions.htm
http://sbinfocanada.about.com/cs/management/a/bizresolutions.htm
http://www.uky.edu/Centers/iwin/publications/published_finals/new%20year.pdf
http://workathomemoms.about.com/b/2011/01/17/new-years-resolution-3-finding-worklife-balance.htm
http://www.linkedin.com/answers/health/work-life-balance/HTH_WLB/769531-272351