It’s January, 2012 – the beginning of a new year.  The turning of the year is often a time for reflection – a time when we look back at the year just gone and forward to the year ahead.

Lady Gaga’s rise to fame reminds us just how much can change in a short space of time.  You may not remember – believe, even – that as recently as the autumn of 2008, Lady Gaga was the little-known supporting act to a reunion of the erstwhile boy-band, New Kids On The Block.

Recently I was intrigued to come across a case study (from the Harvard Business School, no less) exploring the decisions Team Gaga faced when an untimely action by rapper Kanye West put Gaga’s future at risk.  In a summary of this case, the heading Go big or go home highlights the decision that opened up in what could well stand as a lesson in how to assess and manage risk.

“But let’s keep it light” you may say, “and step gently into 2012”.  So for now I offer this question as you look forward to the year ahead:  what’s your ‘go big or go home’ decision for 2012 – the one that could transform your future?

If you’re willing to share, please use the comments box to do so.  If you prefer to read about Lady Gaga, click here.