You can’t open a magazine or newspaper without seeing a recap of 2011. It is hard not to be reminded of the major events–as determined by the media–that have occurred in the past 12 months.

I’m not sure how truly useful these recaps are but I quickly conclude two things: there was nothing I had to do with these major events and there’s nothing I can do about them now.

The best I can hope to do is learn vicariously from those people and events and find some ways to apply the lessons in my own life.

A better use of time is to recap and review your own life in the past year. You were directly involved and there are probably things you can do about at least some of what happened.

Look first at the successes. Did you fully appreciate the good things that happened, and the significant things you achieved? High achievers are too quickly on to the next goal. They often miss the pleasure and increase in optimism that comes from reflecting on success.

Next look at the setbacks. What were the lessons you learned? Have you made changes in your behavior to lessen or mitigate future setbacks? Is there anything you can do know to address whatever difficulties have occurred? If not FIDO (as my Marine friends say): Forge it, Drive On.

Now consider those important relationships in your life. Focus not on the many acquaintances we casually call friends, but on those significant few who truly are. Recap the good memories and look for opportunities to deepen those relationships.

Finally, project into the year ahead to form ideas, goals and plans for how you’d like your life to be. Use the lessons of the past to create the successes of the future.

Recapping the year we’ve finished can bolster our positive feelings, increase our optimism and steady our resolve to make the best of the New Year ahead.

What do YOU have planned for the New Year? Share in the comment box below or connect with me on  Facebook and Twitter.