Earlier messages considered the core components of IMC USA’s strategic framework including the vision, mission, and values. We had a general discussion of the impact of change and the importance of resiliency. The Board recently shared detailed information via video with membership about how change has affected IMC USA operations in the past year and what actions are being taken to sustain and grow the organization. (If you haven’t yet, watch the video and provide feedback.) Several milestones were met prior to year’s end, but much work is left to do.

All of us are accustomed to making New Year’s resolutions at the start of a new year. The custom or tradition, according to various timely articles from National Geographic to CNN, dates back 4,000 years to ancient Babylon, with Rome continuing the practice with the establishment of the Julian calendar and the designation of January 1 as New Year’s Day. Organizations sometimes use the start of a new year as the time to commence new budgets and programs or release new products. A new year to some is an opportunity for a fresh start or new beginning.

In organizations, customs or traditions contribute to the culture of the organization. These behaviors or practices shape the culture. Simply put, culture is the manifestation of shared values, beliefs and norms that guide interactions, decisions, and the resulting actions. Culture develops over time.

As we begin a new year, IMC USA can use fresh eyes to assess the situation and fresh ideas to enhance the path forward. This means visualizing successful outcomes to anticipate potential benefits. It involves members setting SMARTER goals; that are specific, measurable, action-oriented, realistic, time-bound, ethical, and resourced. Discerning the path forward requires the review and creation of added milestones to assess and motivate progress. Of course, once we achieve the goal, we need to claim it or own the accomplishment.

As we begin 2025, IMC USA is presented with the challenge and opportunity to begin again. As Eleanor Roosevelt so aptly put it, “With every new day comes new strength and new thoughts.” 

I hope all IMC USA members and stakeholders have a prosperous year as we reflect, develop strengths, and seize opportunities brought about by a new day and year.