Ah, a New Year. Time for fresh starts, healthier eating, dry January, and “this-year-it’s-going-to-be-different” proclamations.
Sure.
I’ve certainly had my fair share of all of those. This year, however, I’m going to try something a little different. I’m going to look back in order to look ahead. Here are the steps I’m taking, if you’d like to play along!
Review my Journal. For the last 12 years, I’ve been doing “One Line a Day.” It started off as a physical book into which I would write one or two sentences that describe what happened that day. It’s since moved to Apple Notes for convenience, easy access, and because my handwriting is no longer legible even to me. By looking back at the last few Januarys, I can see patterns that I might want to both repeat or avoid.
Look at that calendar! Our calendars guide our day to day, so why can’t they guide our year to year? Just like my One Line a Day, I’m looking back at what filled my days during the past few Januarys. Seeing meetings with colleagues and clients (past and present) can remind me of the lessons I learned along the way. Now is also a good time to acknowledge and forgive myself for previous missteps.
Update that calendar! On the last Friday of each month, I’m setting an hour aside to check in on my progress, plans, and possibilities. So often, one month bleeds into the next without any real reflection.
Re-engage with people. While I’m looking at my calendar, I’m also going to look at my sent emails and LinkedIn InMails to see if there’s anyone I should reconnect with. Important relationships need some important time and attention.
Write myself a letter. As I start this New Year, I’m going to write myself a letter committing to what I want to accomplish in 2026. At the end of June, I’ll write a follow-up to open on, you guessed it, January 1, 2027. I’ve done this exercise with sales teams and nonprofit boards. It’s a great way to reignite enthusiasm that may wane over time.
Those are my thoughts. I’d love to hear what works for you—what helps you move from one year to the next with intention and purpose.
As always, if 2026 is the year you want to make your brand work harder for you, let’s schedule a conversation about your brand priorities. We’re here to help.
In the meantime, Happy New Year!
