The year is coming to an end, and it’s a beautiful time to take a moment to reflect on the past months. Ending the year on a positive, intentional note can give you a satisfying sense of closure and help lay the groundwork for a fresh start.
Here are some ways to finish your year feeling grounded, accomplished, and ready for what’s to come.
1. Reflect on Your Accomplishments
It’s easy to focus on all that we haven’t yet done, as well as the things that didn’t go as planned. However, take a moment to remember all that you’ve accomplished, all the highlights. Consider the moments you’re proud of, however big or small. Did you build new habits, break bad habits, nurture relationships, learn new skills, or take steps toward a goal? Writing down these wins can be empowering and can help you recognise just how much you actually have achieved.
Tip: Make a list of three to five accomplishments that make you feel proud, and keep it somewhere you can see. They don’t have to be huge—sometimes, the small wins add up in unexpected ways.
Some of my ”small”(not so small) personal accomplishments: I started practising ballet, I quit coffee, releasing negative limiting beliefs, I’ve been reading approx. 2-3 books per month, improving my overall health; feeling more energised and active, a huge focus on personal development, etcetera etcetera.
2. Reconnect with Your “Why”
Over the course of the year, it’s common to feel disconnected from the reasons behind your goals. Whether you want to work on your career, health, personal development, or relationships, revisit the motivations that got you started to begin with. This is a good moment to ask yourself, “Why did I want this?” and to reassess whether those goals still resonate. This reflection can help you close the year with a clear sense of purpose, even if your goals evolved and changed along the way, which they usually do…
Tip: Try journaling for a few minutes about what excites you or brings you joy. This can bring clarity and reignite a sense of purpose moving into the new year.
I really would like to bring more creativity into 2025. I would love to start painting again…
3. Clear Out the Clutter
Physically and mentally, decluttering has a way of refreshing your outlook. Take a day to clean out a specific area, like your workspace, digital files, or closet. This doesn’t just make things tidier; it can also help you create space for new experiences and opportunities to come to you.
Tip: Start small with a “15-minute declutter” session. Pick one drawer or one folder, and let that small success build momentum for more.
4. Show Appreciation
One of the most rewarding ways to end the year? Express gratitude! Take a moment to reach out to people who have made a difference in your life, whether it’s a quick message, a card, or even just a simple “thank you” in person. Acknowledging others often has the surprising effect of making us feel happier, too.
Tip: Write a quick note or email to someone who impacted your year positively—perhaps a friend, colleague, mentor, or family member.
5. Set a “Mini Goal” for the End of the Year
Sometimes, closing the year with one last mini goal can be highly motivating. It doesn’t have to be a big commitment—maybe it’s reading a book you’ve had on your list, getting a new workout routine in, or finally starting to drink more water. Having a small goal gives you something to focus on, and a small win before the year is out.
Tip: Choose something you genuinely enjoy or have wanted to try, and keep it manageable. The idea is to go into the new year with a feeling of accomplishment!
I will meditate every morning for 15 minutes…
6. Set Intentions for the New Year
Planning for the new year doesn’t need to be about setting rigid new years’ resolutions. Instead, think of it as crafting a guiding intention. What do you wish to see more of in your life? What would you like to leave behind? Intentions give you a direction rather than a specific endpoint, which can feel more achievable and less daunting.
Tip: Instead of one major resolution, try creating a list of themes or words for the new year—like “growth,” “balance,” or “creativity”—to keep as guiding principles.
My word for 2025: Creativity, grace, love, calm, bliss, opportunities.
Celebrate Your Progress
Ending the year on a good note is all about celebrating who you’ve become and setting a tone of positivity and self-compassion for the next chapter. So, as 2024 is coming to an end, embrace the chance to acknowledge your unique journey. Take stock of all that you’ve learned, let go of what doesn’t serve you, and head into the new year with purpose and determination; Stay curious for all that’s to come!
With love,
Linda
