
Experts in the Art of Nonverbal Communication
Happy New Year! As we welcome January, we find ourselves reflecting on the conversations we had back in October about goal setting, inspired by insights from the Coaching book. We discussed the idea of manifesting our goals to rehearse our future. While it might seem natural to dive back into goal-setting this month, we’re shifting gears and embracing a captivating theme: dreaming.
Traditionally, the New Year brings a flurry of resolutions. However, statistics reveal that around 80% of these resolutions are abandoned by mid-February, with less than 10% (some estimates even as low as 8-9%) managing to stick by year-end. Many resolutions falter within just a few weeks, often by what’s known as “Quitters’ Day” — the second Friday in January. You might wonder: why does this happen? Resolutions often stem from a desire to change, which can lead to feelings of guilt and shame if the change doesn’t unfold as we hoped. This creates a negative cycle, and who wants to set themselves up for failure?
Instead, let’s approach the New Year with positivity. What do we truly wish to invite into our lives this year? Rather than resolutions, our grandchildren inspired us with a delightful idea: 2026 Dream Jars!
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Each of them crafted three wishes: one for themselves, one for their family, and one for the world. Listening to the dreams of our little ones, two at the ages 5 and one 6 year old, was heartwarming! Their wishes ranged from wanting more toys and learning to write their names to keeping our oceans clean and nurturing a healthy planet for all creatures. And yes, we had to channel our inner fortune tellers for the youngest two—our 8-month-old’s wish was a total mystery, while the 1-year-old’s wish came from a brainstorming session of our wildest ideas. The moment he heard something he didn’t immediately reject, we knew we had a winner!
As we share our 2026 dreams with you, we are excited to announce that we’re putting the finishing touches on new videos with our son who is a 4th grade teacher for the Electronic Coaching Book! Click here to join our VIP release list and be among the first to access the book.
Additionally, we are thrilled to bring back MGA’s Group Wizardry and the Perception Camp! Mark your calendars for these wonderful events:
Group Wizardry: Highlighting Presentation Skills – June 15-19, 2026
Perception Camp – June 22-25, 2026
(Locations will be confirmed soon, within 30 minutes of the Portland, Oregon International Airport.)
So, let’s keep dreaming and striving toward the wonderful possibilities this year holds. Here’s to a vibrant and fulfilling 2026!
-Krista
How can MGA help you improve your nonverbal communication skills?
Education
Nourish student relationships and reduce disciplinary time. Learn how enhancing your nonverbal communication helps classroom management.
Business
Fuel your employees and lead them to even greater successes. Discover how nonverbal communication helps business leaders and in-house teams.
Personal Development
Build better relationships with your colleagues, close friends, and your intimate partner — just by learning nonverbal communication skills and making them a habit. Learn more.
Michael Grinder & Associates Academy
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