Dear Elliott,
As we approach the end of the year, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement for what’s ahead and a little anxiety about the things left unfinished. It’s been a busy, challenging year, and it feels like I’m already rushing into the next without stopping to breathe. How do I make sure I’m taking time to reflect on everything that’s happened before I dive into the new year?
Sincerely,
-Ready for a Pause
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Dear Ready for a Pause,
You’re not alone! The end of the year has a way of sneaking up on all of us, leaving us juggling loose ends while already thinking about new goals. But taking time to reflect before launching into the new year isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential for growth, both personally and professionally.
Reflection helps you process everything that’s happened—the wins, the challenges, and even the moments that didn’t go as planned. It allows you to carry forward the lessons learned rather than just pushing forward without thought.
Here’s how you can use this time for a meaningful year-end reflection:
1. Celebrate Your Wins
It’s easy to forget the victories, especially when you’re focused on what didn’t get done. Take a moment to list your achievements—big or small. Maybe you launched a new initiative, developed a new skill, or led your team through a tough project. Don’t downplay your successes! Celebrating these moments reminds you of the progress you’ve made, even if the road wasn’t always smooth.
2. Reflect on Challenges with Compassion
We all have those “I could have done that better” moments. Instead of getting stuck in self-criticism, reflect with compassion. What were the major challenges or setbacks? What did you learn from them? What would you do differently next time? Reflecting on challenges without judgment helps you grow from them rather than carrying them into the new year as baggage.
3. Acknowledge Personal Growth
Think about how you’ve changed as a leader or as a person. Did you become more resilient? Learn to communicate more effectively? Sometimes, the biggest growth isn’t about tangible outcomes but about how we evolve internally. Give yourself credit for the ways you’ve adapted, even when it felt tough.
4. Recognize Your Team’s Contributions
If you’re a leader, this is a great time to reflect on your team’s efforts as well. Who stepped up in unexpected ways? Who brought new ideas or quietly kept things running? Acknowledge their contributions and find ways to express your appreciation as the year comes to a close. Reflection isn’t just personal—it’s about appreciating the collective journey.
5. Set Your Intentions for the New Year
Before diving into New Year’s resolutions or goals, think about your intentions. What kind of leader, teammate, or person do you want to be? How do you want to show up in the world next year? By focusing on the kind of person you want to be, rather than just what you want to achieve, you set yourself up for a more meaningful and aligned year ahead.
6. Take a Moment for Gratitude
Gratitude helps shift your focus from what’s missing to what’s present. Take a few minutes to think about the people, opportunities, and experiences you’re grateful for. It’s a grounding practice that reminds you of the positives, even when the year felt challenging at times.
Reflection isn’t about getting stuck in the past—it’s about honoring the journey. As you head into the new year, take this moment to pause, reflect, and recharge. By doing so, you’ll enter the new year with a clear mind, a sense of accomplishment, and the wisdom to take on whatever comes next.
Here’s to a reflective close to this year and an exciting start to the next!
Bark the Norm!
Elliott, Chief Morale Officer @Break the Norm Leadership
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