WE'RE nearly a quarter of the way through 2011 so perhaps it's worth pausing to ask exactly how your New Year's resolutions are going.

Come on, be honest – you've given up, haven't you?

You're not alone – although that's not much consolation. You are with thousands of other business owners who start a new year without truly committing to make a difference. But it doesn't need to be like this.

It's not enough to resolve to do something – it needs to be carried out. Action is the only thing that delivers. It's also important to programme your brain for success. That's where resolutions have a place – they pre-condition your mind to make the best of what comes your way or that you attract through your everyday patterns of behaviour.

So it might be time to regroup and actually change some things for the better.

With that in mind, here are some thoughts on moving forward and setting goals for the rest of the year:

Listen more – Not only is this a crucial coaching skill, but it's invaluable in every sales conversation or any interaction with a team member. Listening – really listening and not just thinking about what you're going to say next – enables you to understand others, empathise, build relationships. That's critical whether you're interacting with customers, employees, suppliers, or your family members and friends.

Embrace change – Some change will be good, some not so, but every change is an opportunity and every opportunity requires change. So this year, make change your best friend.

Be brave – There's no doubt that it will be another tough year in business. All the more reason to set that big hairy audacious goal – make it something to really stretch you. Get outside your comfort zone, do different things and realise your true potential.

Plan to grow – Set yourself that goal – don't allow yourself to get away with soft targets. You owe it to yourself and your family to make the most of the fantastic business you are in.

Trust in yourself – You know you have the potential. Try writing down all the things you have done and achieved in your life – both in business and outside – create a personal confidence list – all those things that you are good at and have accomplished. Remind yourself just how good you really are. The only barrier to your progress is you.

Prioritise action – Above all else, action will get you to where you want to be. No action: no progress, no rewards, no satisfaction, no fulfilment – it's as simple as that.

Outlaw procrastination – Ask yourself what activities you find yourself doing when you don't really want to tackle those big tasks? Don't let yourself do the easy stuff – stay on task!

So what are you waiting for? Go for it and make this your best year yet!