Happy New Year – 2024 promises to be a fantastic year.

2023 delivered more than the usual number of challenges but looking back over the year I am happy, and grateful and have developed the “useful belief” that 2023 was one of the best years of my life.

Finding a “useful belief” is a concept I learned from Chris Helder – when things are tough rather than complaining, find a “useful belief.”

My health was good, my family was happy and well, and we’re blessed with 11 grandchildren and another one on the way.

Despite the economic challenges, my business Metropole has been great and I’ve got a great team and amazing partners, the Michael Yardney Podcast grew from strength to strength and has now had over 5 million downloads and my daily Property Update newsletter has had over 2.6 million unique readers this year – that’s a huge percentage of the Australian adult population.

So rather than looking at all the challenges I experienced…

It’s days like this that I like to reflect …

I look back on where I came from.

Then, I appreciate where I am.

And finally, I think about where I want to be.

It’s an interesting exercise I conduct that keeps me thankful, grateful and just as importantly motivated.

Maybe this is an exercise you should do too!

Let me explain…

1. Look back at where you came from …

What hardships have you overcome and how did you manage to do this?

I’ve had more than my share of hardships, but when I look back many of them have been self-inflicted.

As you reflect you’ll find that you’ve gotten through many stumbling blocks life has put in your way.

And even if you’re going through one right now, you’ll know there’s a light at the end of the tunnel because your past proves your ability to overcome it.

That’s why you should feel thankful.

2. Appreciate where you are…

Think about all the things in your life you should be grateful for.

If you’re reading this you’re most likely in the 0.3% of the world’s population who live in Australia and compared to most of the world you’ll find that life is pretty good.

And even if you think it could be better, there are so many people in worse situations.

That’s why you should feel grateful.

3. Think about where you want to be in the future… 

And what are you going to have to do to ensure you get there?

Now you’ll know that you still have work to do, and this should keep you motivated.

If you can find the time today (or in the next few days) please ask yourself these 3 questions to help you get yourself ready for a new year filled with progress.

I hope you’ll also have time for a great holiday break and here’s to an amazing 2024.

Have a great year…make it a great year!

About Michael Yardney
Michael is a director of Metropole Property Strategists who help their clients grow, protect and pass on their wealth through independent, unbiased property advice and advocacy. He’s once again been voted Australia’s leading property investment adviser and one of Australia’s 50 most influential Thought Leaders. His opinions are regularly featured in the media.