For what? you might ask. As the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to look back at what the year provided, consider what you’d like to do differently moving forward, and start getting organized to make the most of the new year ahead.

The best lessons learned are from the past. So, zoom out a bit, and take a look in the rear-view mirror at the past year. Ask some big questions. What defined your year? (growth, survival, change, etc.) Would you summarize your year as positive or negative? What key lessons did you learn about yourself?

Be sure to acknowledge the wins, especially the quiet ones. Perhaps you hit a milestone or took a courageous new step in a positive direction. Or maybe you maintained a healthy habit, set a boundary, or handled a situation more productively than you might have previously. If it took thought and effort, it counts. Even if you’re the only one who knows, take a moment to recognize and celebrate your wins.

Make note of what worked for you, what energized you, and what drained you. These could include people, routines, environments, obligations, patterns, mindsets, sleep schedules, eating habits, exercise, etc. Identifying these elements is key to planning for next year.

Everyone will identify things that didn’t work but be careful not to dwell on them or go down the path of ‘blame.’ Instead, acknowledge them, identify why they didn’t work, and use this knowledge to avoid repeating these scenarios.

Now, with the knowledge you’ve gained after these steps, begin planning for next year. Start by identifying overall intentions, keeping them general, ex: consistent exercise. Then add in the goals to get you there, ex: walk four days per week. If you have multiple goals, try organizing them by personal, professional, and wellbeing.

Try these tips to help with this process:

• Keep your goals simple and attainable, and know that once you reach one, you can set a new one. Ex: walk 4 days per week, then 5, then 6
• Build habits that set you up for success. Ex: if your goal is to read more, keep a book where you’re most likely to read, perhaps next to your bed
• Remove any barriers that may deter you from reaching your goals. Ex: if your goal is to drink less soda, remove it from your refrigerator
• Recognize how you might get off track and plan for the hard moments.
• Write a letter to yourself and/or document this process and the goals you’ve set.
• Choose a word or mantra for the year.
• Take a moment to be thankful for the past year – all of it – even the messy parts.

So, as the calendar year comes to a close, be sure to take some time to reflect, evaluate, and plan to make this next year the best one ever. And, of course, don’t forget to take some time to rest, recharge, spend time with those you care most about, and remember the reason for the season. Cheers to a happy new year!

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