I think the key to happiness is working hard at finding others in your life who challenge you to be a better person, both personally and professionally. Those who live their lives with passion and integrity. People who know that their words should reflect their actions and who understand the larger impact this has on the community to which they belong.

Some have told me over the years to lower my expectations of others; to in essence not try and raise the bar for the clients and people to which I associate. Their argument on the surface appears sound. If I don’t set the bar too high then I won’t be frustrated or disappointed in the outcomes. While in theory this sounds good, it never sticks with me.

In 2009 I turned down several lucrative contracts because the “leaders” of the organization told me that it didn’t need to work, it just needed to get done. Not good enough. Not for me and I don’t think it should be acceptable to others.

I’ve seen first hand the incredible talents that exist in the User Experience field, from every corner of the planet – so let’s raise the bar together this year, shall we? I’m going to suggest that we use the creed in this ad as a kind of constitution:

Millions of people. Everyone out for themselves. Can this really be the only way? No!

We can connect with anyone in the world now. Although I will admit that people are generally self-serving, I would like to challenge every UX professional and company around the world to share more and foster a better understanding of the value our discipline(s) can bring to the table. We are a small group with more than enough opportunities to go around.

Here’s to honor; and to gallantry! Long may it live.

Honor. Gallantry. Two words that I believe we need to adopt as our themes for 2010 and beyond. Take pride in your work while helping others when you can.

Here’s to doing the right thing; to giving a damn! Here’s to the straight talkers, who give their word and keep it.

Knowing the path and walking the path are two very different processes in life and in business. Give a damn about what you create. Know when to step away. Adopt the capacity to simply say “I don’t know” so that you can keep your word…every time. Listen more often then you speak and ask others for their perspective; keeping an open mind to a variety of ideas.

Here’s to freedom, wherever you find it. And to knowing the true meaning of wealth.

Understand that people find freedom in different forms of work, styles of communication, and the values they hold in the highest regard with colleagues, peers, and family.

Wealth in life comes not from the “stuff” we obtain but from the relationships we form with others. My grandfather once told me that no one will remember me after I pass on for the car I drive or the house I own. People will remember the impact I had on their life; for better or worse.

Here’s the brave among us. Here’s to a code of behavior that sets certain men…apart from all others. Here’s to us! Live with chivalry.

Let’s gain some perspective here. Bravery is seen in those who chose to take on a career as a firefighter, police officer, or other public servant who every day puts themselves in harms way for people they don’t even know!

Here’s to all of us (men and women) who go that extra mile to help others succeed. Here’s to a life (and career) filled with passion and meaning. Cheers!