As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect, refocus, and set the stage for a successful year ahead. In this blog post, I’ll share three tried-and-tested exercises that will help you review the past year and pave the way for a more purposeful and productive future.
Exercise 1: The 90-Day Plan
This exercise is based on a simple observation: it is impossible to read the future. We overestimate what we are capable of doing in the short term, and underestimate our results in the long term. The 90-Day Plan is a game-changer, offering a structured approach to bridge this gap.
I would suggest crafting a 12-week plan with specific goals and actions. The key is executing the plan week by week, ensuring a continuous feedback loop. This not only keeps you motivated but also ensures that today’s efforts have a lasting impact on the coming months and beyond.
Every year, you reflect on the big goals for the year. Then you build your plan to get closer to those goals, over 90 days. You then spend your first week executing the plan. You do a weekly review to prepare for the next week based on your 90-day plan. Then you run for 7 days. And so on. You stay motivated because you know that the tasks you’re doing today will have an impact on the next 90 days and then the year. And then you create quick feedback loops to stay the course and move towards your goals.
At the end of the year, it will be easier to go through your plan and review your year’s results. Of course, you can review also what did not go that well and set again the objectives for the following year.
Exercise 2: Reviewing the Calendar
Tim Ferriss, author of “The 4-Hour Workweek,” introduces a refreshing resolution approach – reviewing your calendar. Instead of setting abstract goals, objectively analyze how you spent your time throughout the year. Whether using an online calendar or a traditional one, categorize your activities. Were your priorities in balance? Did your time align with your values? This exercise prompts an honest evaluation, setting the foundation for intentional time management in the future.
Exercise 3: Proust’s Questionnaire
Try to discover yourself with Proust’s questionnaire, a personality test made famous by Marcel Proust. Comprising 34 thought-provoking questions, it delves into virtues, flaws, preferences, and aspirations. Reflecting on these prompts provides valuable insights into your character, desires, and priorities. Take the time to answer each question sincerely, and you’ll unveil a clearer picture of who you are and what truly matters to you.
As you wrap up this year and prepare for the next, these exercises serve as powerful tools to guide your reflection and goal-setting process. The 90-Day Plan ensures strategic execution, reviewing the calendar brings clarity to your priorities, and Proust’s questionnaire provides a deep understanding of yourself. Commit to these exercises, and you’ll not only conclude the year on a thoughtful note but also set the stage for a fulfilling and purpose-driven new year.
What are your strategies for reviewing your current year goals and setting new ones for the next year?
You are welcome to visit my blog crisbiecoach for more insights. Also, if not done yet, please sign up for Wise&Shine so you don’t miss out on any posts!