Empowered Beginnings

There’s something about the start of a new year that feels like standing at a threshold. On one side is everything we’ve just lived through—the victories, the challenges, the moments that tested us. On the other is everything we hope to create—the goals we’re dreaming of, the connections we want to nurture, and the work that still calls us.

But let’s be honest: stepping into this particular new year feels complicated. The uncertainty of the world around us, the weight of systemic challenges, and the pressure to keep moving forward can feel like too much. So, as we take this step together, I want to invite you to approach the year ahead differently.

What if we entered this new season with less pressure and more intention? What if we let reflection guide our goals, rest fuel our progress, and collaboration remind us that we are not in this alone?

This week, let’s explore what it means to start a new year empowered—not by doing more, but by doing what truly matters.

The Power of Goals That Honor Reflection, Rest, and Rejuvenation

In a world that celebrates busyness, it’s easy to think that the only goals worth setting are the ambitious, over-the-top ones. But here’s the truth: goals that ignore your need for reflection and rest are unsustainable. They’ll run you into the ground before you ever reach them.

This year, I’m challenging myself—and you—to set goals that honor the full scope of what it means to be a leader, a disruptor, and a human being. Goals that allow us to pause, recharge, and reflect along the way.

Ask yourself:

• What lessons from last year do I want to carry forward? Reflection isn’t just about looking back—it’s about taking the wisdom of your experiences into what’s next.
• How can I intentionally prioritize rest? Whether it’s scheduling a mid-year break, building quiet mornings into your routine, or simply committing to stepping away from work when the day is done, rest is non-negotiable.
• What does rejuvenation look like for me? Maybe it’s moving your body, spending time in nature, or diving into a creative outlet. Whatever it is, make it a regular part of your rhythm—not a luxury you hope to “earn.”

The best goals are the ones that leave room for you to be whole, present, and aligned with your values.

Aligning Goals with Your Purpose

Purpose is the anchor that holds you steady when uncertainty feels overwhelming. It’s the “why” behind the work you do, the reason you keep showing up even when the road ahead is unclear.

When you align your goals with your purpose, you move through the year with clarity and confidence. Your work becomes more than a checklist—it becomes a meaningful journey toward the impact you want to create.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Define Your Purpose: Ask yourself: What drives me as a leader? What change am I working toward in my life, my community, or my sector? Purpose doesn’t have to be grand—it just has to be true.
2. Set Intentional Goals: Not every goal needs to change the world. Some goals might focus on building better habits, deepening your relationships, or simply taking care of yourself.
3. Make Space for Flexibility: Goals should guide you, not constrain you. Leave room to adapt as you grow and learn throughout the year.
4. Measure Your Impact, Not Just Your Productivity: Instead of asking, “What did I get done?” ask, “What difference did I make?” Purpose-aligned goals focus on the value of your work, not just the volume.

Nurturing Collaborations That Strengthen the Work

Here’s something I’ve learned: Disruption isn’t a solo act. The work of challenging systems and creating change is too big for any one person. We need collaborators—people who share our vision, who challenge us to think differently, and who walk alongside us when the road feels long.

But building meaningful collaborations takes time and intention. It requires trust, vulnerability, and a shared commitment to the work.

Here’s how to find and nurture those relationships:

• Look for Shared Values: Seek out people and organizations who care about the same issues you do. Alignment in values makes collaboration stronger and more effective.
• Invest in Authentic Connection: Relationships aren’t just about networking. Take the time to really get to know your collaborators—their goals, their challenges, their stories. Collaboration rooted in trust is collaboration that lasts.
• Lift Each Other Up: Share resources, amplify each other’s voices, and celebrate collective wins. When one of us rises, we all rise.

This year, let’s commit to finding the people who will stand with us in the work—and to being those people for others.

A Reflection Exercise for the Year Ahead

As you think about how you want to move into the new year, take 20 minutes to reflect and plan:

Look Back

Write down:

• One challenge that stretched you and what you learned from it.
• One moment of rest or joy that rejuvenated you.
• One success that affirmed your purpose.

Set Empowered Goals

Write down:

• One goal that aligns with your values and purpose.
• One way you will prioritize rest and rejuvenation this year.
• One relationship you will invest in to strengthen your work.

Name Your Word for the Year

Choose one word or phrase that captures how you want to show up this year. Let it be a reminder of what matters most as you move forward.

Final Thoughts

This year, let’s lead with intention. Let’s set goals that allow us to rest, reflect, and grow. Let’s align our work with our purpose and surround ourselves with collaborators who share our vision.

The road ahead may feel uncertain, but together, we have the strength to face it. If this edition resonated with you, subscribe to Empowered Voices for more reflections and strategies to guide your leadership journey.

Here’s to an empowered beginning.

Warmly,

Dr. Kim Davis

Founder & President, Five/6teen Consulting