The end of the year is always an exciting time. It’s like closing off a cycle and beginning a new one.

Although it’s an artificial construction (unlike the Winter Solstice, which is a natural one), it still affects us due to the cultural baggage it brings.

And that’s ok!

The important part is that sometime during your year, you find time to reflect on the past and plan for the future.

It doesn’t matter when; it matters that you find a time to do it that makes sense for you. It could be today, the last day of 2023, or maybe it’s a month from now, or perhaps it was a few months back. It doesn’t really matter when; it matters that you actually do it.

Personally, I like the last day of the year – or near the last day of the year, around the Winter Solstice – but preferably before the first day of the new year.

But I also do the same monthly. The end of the year one is more comprehensive – since it includes all of the months – but is still the same principle.

Reflection and planning.

Looking back into what you’ve done, accomplished, felt, reflected on, and looking ahead to what you want to be doing.

The only way to grow is through self-reflection and conscious planning. Even if the plans change entirely throughout the year due to the influence of external events (just like what happened in 2020!), establishing a road map is a crucial point that gives you the awareness you need to know where you want to be headed.

Have a great 2024!