As we get to the end of another year that went so quickly, it is good to pause, rest, recharge and reflect.
Before we get into new year resolutions, goals and action plans for next year, rather first take stock and acknowledge what you have achieved this year, personally and professionally – small steps, big or small wins, overcoming challenges, starting or completing tasks/projects, a difficult conversation, health checks, family time, wellbeing habits etc.
Continue to do this daily/weekly/monthly during the year. This is know as a Ta-da list, like ticking off or list what you have accomplished, to complement your goals/actions/To-do list.
Acknowledging what we have done or started, and giving ourselves a pat on the back (and also to others), builds positive emotions, motivation, action and momentum.
For a task that we have started, this recognition tells our brain to complete the task (now or another time), and to continue working on goals, short or long term.
As James Clear calls it: “Atomic Habits” – chunking down goals into very small steps, actions and habits.
We can’t do it all, but we can do that most important thing!
Prioritise, plan and block out time to do one important thing each day (work and personal), and give yourself credit each day for doing so! It could be just 5 minutes of mindfulness, or taking quick, regular breaks!
To-do and Ta-da lists go hand in hand!
Set and review personal/professional realistic goals and action plans daily/weekly/monthly, and not just at the beginning of the year. Block out and allocate time for each step. Keep tracking regularly, based on changes, workloads, your mental/physical energy and wellbeing.
All the best for a restorative, happy festive season break, and a successful, peaceful 2024.
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