Navigating the Year-End Limbo
Can you believe it? Another year is winding down and we're about to flip the calendar to a fresh chapter! 📆✨ I don’t know about you, but I struggle with the tension that comes at the end of the year and I know I’m not the only one. On one hand, time seems to have hit the snooze button, days are getting shorter, and darkness is setting in like it’s got a curfew. It's the season of chill, and not just because winter is here – productivity decides to take a vacation too, leaving us all in a bit of a year-end siesta.
But wait, there's a plot twist!
While the world is trying to hibernate, there is also a mad rush to the finish line. Everyone's playing beat-the-clock, dealing with work surprises that pop up out of nowhere (thanks, scope creep!), and desperately trying to check off all those year-end to-dos while avoiding colds and flus, even though ‘Tis the season. It's like a chaotic holiday party, but instead of confetti, we're drowning in deadlines.
So, here we are, caught in this weird limbo between wanting to kick back and spend time with family, and also wanting to be uber productive and plan for a brand-new year. We are in the grand finale, folks! In this rollercoaster ride to the year's end, we're all just trying to balance the "Netflix and chill" vibe with the "oh-my-gosh, I have so much to do" panic.
One thing that has always helped me narrow in on the most important and impactful work is to take some time to reflect and plan. Getting out of “panic productivity mode” and looking at the bigger picture.
So, let's take a moment to reflect on the seeds we planted this year, the blooms we witnessed, and the exciting gardens that we are about to cultivate in 2024. Grab a cup of your favorite brew, settle into your coziest chair, and let's chat about one of my favorite frameworks for reflection, planning, and assessing your current priorities!
Reflection: What are you harvesting?
This year has been a rollercoaster, right? The highs, the lows, and everything in between. Take a moment to pat yourself on the back for those victories – big and small. Remember that killer project you aced or the personal milestone you reached? That's the fruit of your hard work and dedication.
Now, let's acknowledge the curveballs life threw at us. Those challenges weren't roadblocks; they were detours leading to growth. Remember the time when things didn't go as planned, and you thought, "Well, this is a plot twist!" Reflect on how you adapted, learned, and emerged stronger. Your resilience deserves a standing ovation!
The benefit of first reflecting allows you to cultivate motivation and inspiration for the next stage… Planning! So take a moment to celebrate it! All of it! 🎉 Share a high-five with your team or treat yourself to that extra chocolate square. Personally, I like to take screenshots or notes of any accomplishments and/or learnings and keep them in my virtual "Brag Book" folder on my desktop. Great way to gain some extra motivation when you hit the ground running in January!
Planning: What seeds are you planting?
Now, let's talk about the future – the exciting part!
What dreams are you brewing for 2024? Maybe you're eyeing a business expansion, a big career move, leveling up your skills, or embracing a healthier lifestyle. Picture your goals as seeds, and you're the skilled gardener planting them in the fertile soil of opportunity.
Peter Drucker once said “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Think about what you want in your life and career in the next 12 months. Consider the actionable steps that are within your control that will help you reach these goals.
Remember, even the mightiest oak starts as a tiny acorn. Your dreams are no different. Nurture them, water them, and watch them grow into something magnificent.
Assess Current State: What areas need nourishment?
Before rushing to build out your roadmap, take a moment to assess your current state. By taking the time to identify your current patterns and fuel level, you can adequately prioritize the most impactful areas to focus your time between now and the end of the year. In addition, you’ll be able to better plan for the upcoming year.
Just like your favorite plant sometimes needs a bit of extra TLC, certain aspects of your life or business might be thirsting for attention. It's not a sign of weakness; it's an opportunity for growth.
Is your time management a bit wonky? Maybe it's time to reassess your schedule and identify the gap between how you have been spending your time, and how you want to spend your time (ideally).
Feeling a bit burnt out? Consider the areas in your life that need more self-care or the areas that you would benefit from delegating.
Think of this step as a pit stop on your journey. Assess where you are, refuel, and get ready for the exciting road ahead. If you plan to take some time off around the holidays, identify what you might want to schedule during this time to take care of your main priority… YOU!
Roadmap for the New Year: Creating Your Action Plan
Now that you have a clear picture of your current state, your 2023 harvest, and your 2024 garden plans, it’s time to dig into the details and create a roadmap for achieving your next set of goals.
This step can take a bit longer. I tend to like to start with my SMART goals and then break each of those down into smaller action steps (monthly and then weekly) that will help you reach your goal.
I've included a free download below that you can utilize to plan for the new year and/or support your team in planning for the new year!
