Year-end thoughts for leaders and go-getters
As a leader in the public sector, not for profit and corporate worlds, I took the last few weeks of each year to reflect on my achievements and those of my various staff teams and departments, and how few of those were accomplished entirely by myself. Most things we do in life, whether personal or at work, are done with the help and support of many.
The end of the year for me is special because it keeps me humble and allows me to appreciate people in a unique way. Here are my ideas for introspection this holiday season:
This is a time for reflection – take a moment to think about the past year, your accomplishments and the challenges you faced. How did you grow? What are you proud of? What did you learn? Who provided you with support along the way, and how will you thank them?
This is a time for mindfulness – In the hustle and bustle preceding the holidays, pause to focus on the present and how you’re doing. Develop a sense of mindfulness and awareness of the season. Reflect on what it means to you, your employees and your loved ones, and how you will share the season with them.
This is a time for planning – equipped with the lessons you learned last year, you’re in a better position to tackle the coming year with purpose and ambition. What do you desire and what must you do to achieve it, for you and your organization? Formulate a clear plan of action for the new year. How will you motivate and energize your staff as they return to work after the holidays?
This is a season for generosity. In these troubling times, it is essential to recognize our employees for their efforts to bring success to us and the organization. Providing hefty bonuses may be difficult, but acts of gratitude can be inexpensive or free, and are easy to do. By being generous with kindness, time, and appreciation for everyone around, we can be role models for others, including our employees.
As leaders and go-getters, we can actively demonstrate leadership by giving to those less fortunate and to the broader community. Not only does this help those in need, but it sends a message about the organization that can increase employee engagement, and consequently, boost productivity.
Lastly, this is a time for relaxation – nothing is more important than our health and well-being. Make sure to take the time this holiday season to decompress, relax and recharge, physically and mentally. The coming year will bring more opportunities, so a stronger, more energized YOU is required!
As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to spread collegiality, friendship and good cheer. The world needs it, and as inhabitants of this beautiful earth, each of us is a leader. We must take up the baton and set an example of goodness, kindness, decency. It is our moral responsibility if we are to achieve peace on earth.
Heartfelt thanks to all for reading, and for cheering me on as I offer tidbits of what hopefully some consider wisdom.
Previous year-end posts
- 2022: “Heal the world with love”
- 2021: “Wrapping up 2021!”
- 2020: “The year that made history”
Email me: bernadette@gogettercoaching.com .