Finish Strong: 7 Steps to Unlock Your Best Year Yet in 2025

42 Days to Finish the Year Strong—Here’s How

As the year winds down, many of us feel tempted to hit the brakes. Big goals? We tell ourselves they can wait until January.

But what if we flipped that script?

What if, instead of slowing down, we used these last 42 days to create real, tangible progress that sets us up not just for 2024, but for 2025 and beyond?

Here’s the thing: this isn’t about cramming more on your to-do list. It’s about focusing on one priority that positions you for success in a world of constant change. With AI and other new technologies reshaping the workplace daily, the way we finish the year isn’t just about closure—it’s about staying relevant.

So, let’s make it happen. Here's how to end 2023 on a high note and sprint into 2024 stronger than ever.

1. Choose a High-Impact Goal to Future-Proof Your Career

Think of one goal that excites you and sets the stage for where you want to go next. This should align with future-ready skills or experiences—whether that’s mastering a new tech tool, showcasing your expertise, or diving deeper into a skill like data-driven decision-making.

Example:

Instead of “learning more tech,” try: “Complete a mini-project using AI to solve a real work challenge” or “Create three case studies from recent projects to share online.”

Action Step: Choose one goal that lights you up and makes you excited to start. If it’s future-proofing your career, it’s worth prioritizing.

2. Break It Down Into Weekly Wins

42 days might feel like a lot, but six weeks? That’s totally doable. Break your goal into bite-sized weekly milestones to keep your momentum high. Each week, focus on one small win that moves you closer to the finish line.

Action Plan:

- Weeks 1–2: Lay the foundation (plan, research, or set up).

- Weeks 3–5: Execute! Dedicate time to creating, learning, or building.

- Week 6: Polish and finalize for that satisfying feeling of “done.”

Mini-deadlines = major motivation.

3. Start Each Morning With Purpose

How you start your day matters. For most of us, morning is when we're at our best, so dedicate your first hour to meaningful work on your goal, free from distractions like email or social media.

Pro Tip: Start small. Tackle something simple like jotting down ideas or revisiting yesterday’s work to build early momentum.

Action Step: Block out your first 60–90 minutes daily for this focused work. It’s your most productive time—make it count.

4. Minimize Distractions and Save Energy

With the holidays a few days away, energy management is key. Decision fatigue is real, so simplify wherever you can—whether that’s prepping meals ahead of time or automating routines—to keep your focus on what matters.

Action Step: Streamline your day. Pre-plan meals, stick to a consistent schedule, and block off time for uninterrupted “deep work.”

Example: Label calendar blocks as “Sprint Time” to signal that this is your time for high-priority tasks.

5. Say “Not Now” to Non-Essentials

Not everything needs to get done right now. For the next 42 days, let go of tasks that don’t align with your sprint goal.

Action Step:

- Delegate or defer low-priority tasks.

- Let your team know you’re in focus mode and may not respond instantly.

Mindset Shift: Think of this as your season of focus. Everything else can wait.

6. Build Accountability Into Your Plan

We all need a little nudge sometimes. Sharing your goal with a trusted partner can make a big difference.

Action Step: Find an accountability buddy and commit to weekly check-ins. Even a quick message like, “Here’s what I did this week!” can keep you motivated and on track.

7. Reflect, Celebrate, and Adjust Weekly

Don’t forget to celebrate along the way! A quick end-of-week reflection helps you stay aligned with your goal and gives you a chance to adapt if something’s not working.

Action Step: Take 10 minutes every Friday to review:

- What worked this week?

- What didn’t?

- What’s one tweak to try next week?

Pro Tip: Celebrating small wins isn’t just motivating—it’s energizing. Treat yourself to something that makes you feel good!

Crossing the Finish Line Strong

The next 42 days are a gift—a chance to wrap the year with purpose and set the tone for the year ahead. AI and new technologies won’t wait for January, and neither should we.

So, what will you focus on?

Choose your goal. Commit to it. Start every morning with intention. This year isn’t over yet, and it’s your time to finish strong.

What’s your high-impact goal for the next 42 days? Hit reply and share—I’d love to cheer you on!