By: Cheryl Smith
Some might say making New Year’s resolutions is much to do about nothing.
Every day I wake up resolving to do something.
Sometimes, you just have to adapt to the times.
Scrolling social media the other day I ran across what was called, by the James Brown Family Foundation, “Mr. James Brown’s New Year’s Resolution.”
The resolutions from the late, great Godfather of Soul, the hardest working man in show business, the prolific, and for me, compassionate musical genius, not only were the resolutions derived from some of his top hits, but they also fell right in line with my way of thinking about Living in America (also one of his hits)!
In addition to the music and work ethic of Mr. Brown, the messages resonated with me because I have the same feeling every morning that I get up and get out of bed.
First, I know that when I awaken, there are necessary things that must occur, but it is also necessary for me to make the day matter by getting up and doing more than just existing!
Yes, I’m happy for a new year.
I am always happy every day, actually, but that doesn’t mean that sometimes it isn’t a challenge getting out of that bed to face who knows what, and what is you know who going to do today.
If I feel early on that I got up on the wrong side of the bed, I get back in and get out on the other side.
That’s why Mr. Brown’s resolutions serve as an inspiration for me.
1. Get On Up
Every night when I go to bed, I am already hyped because I know that if I get up in the morning, I’ve got work to do! There’s a reason I am inhaling and exhaling, and so I believe I have something to do, a purpose.
2. Get On Up
I never moan and groan. I don’t really need to be told a second time to get up, but it feels good to hear it in my head. So I get up, even though it isn’t as easy to do as it was last century. But so what, I’m getting up!
3. Get Up and Do My Thing
Now, what is my thing? It changes daily, but either way, I am up and ready to go! My thing happens to be centered around leaving this world we live in better than when I got here. What a noble and very challenging cause, considering the ball of confusion that exists today. I’m going to do the best I can. Forget those who say, “nobody’s perfect.” I’m the only me – Cheryl Smith – so I strive to be the best Cheryl Smith can be. No copping out here!
4. Get up Offa That Thing
Now, sometimes as I’m moving around, I find myself going places or caught up in someone else’s mess, and that’s when I have to cut my losses or winnings, and get up offa that thing. You see, all things ain’t good things! And all things are not for ME!
5. Get on the Good Foot
It’s amazing what your feet can do when you’re focused and when you know your purpose. No matter what is going on or who is around, I have to get on the good foot, like a GPS is in my shoe, and I have to avoid being rerouted unnecessarily or taking a route that is not in my best interests. I am not trying to walk in someone else’s shoes, and I am very comfortable letting those around me go where they choose. I get on the good foot and talking to myself, I say, “feet don’t fail me now!”
6. Give It Up Turn it Loose
If rerouting is necessary, no matter how much it hurts or tugs at my heartstrings, I don’t want to do anything that is detrimental to me or those I love, so I have to let whomever or whatever go. That type of hurt won’t last forever. It also involves, saying “no” with nothing following but silence. I can even say it in Spanish, “No!”
7. Make It Funky
Now, if you didn’t know, I am a Warrior. And hailing from Newark, New Jersey; I understand the importance of knowing who, when, what, why and how; but mostly what good will come out of making it funky. Actually, sometimes just the threat of making it funky or your opponent knowing you are capable of making it funky is enough to make things happen in your favor. Not standing up will cause more pain over time. Make it funky one time can send a message that lasts a lifetime.
8. Don’t Take No Mess
This was something Professor Cheryl Smith established every semester that I walked into a classroom. Coming in, the students didn’t know what to expect, but they knew long before FAFO (Fool Around and Find Out) became a popular saying that I wasn’t one of their “little” friends. They also learned that they didn’t want what I had to give should they try me. This method has worked in the boardroom, in the streets, and anywhere else I go. I have to stand on purpose, business, and principle.
9. Stay on the Scene
Wherever I am is “the scene” and over the years I have observed folks like businessman and long-time radio personality Willis Johnson, and I have learned how to hit it and quit it otherwise, your staying on the scene may equate to overstaying your welcome. I now know how to determine when, how long, and why I should stay on the scene. Then, it’s about doing your job and honoring your commitment. I’m there for the long haul, but I also know where the closest exit is!
So as I move forward, keeping the faith, extending grace, and living a life that matters, I know what I need to be doing!
