Making the Most of the Last Quarter of the Year

With 96 days left in 2024, it’s tempting to feel like the year is slipping away. But here's the truth: 27% of the year still remains. That’s more than enough time to refocus, realign, and make the most of what’s left. I’ve always found something refreshing about September. It’s that sweet spot—summer’s lingering warmth meets autumn’s brisk invitation, the academic calendar restarts, and for many of us, it’s a chance to hit ‘refresh’ on our goals. There’s a quiet urgency, a nudge, reminding us that if we’re going to finish strong, the time to start is now.

The final quarter can feel like a race against time, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’ve had a stellar year so far or one riddled with unmet expectations, these next few months offer a rare window—a chance to decide how you want your year to end, regardless of how it started. The finish line is in sight, and the question is: how will you cross it? Here are some ways to make sure you do—on your own terms.

1. Take Small Steps

There’s magic in the little things. Sometimes we get so overwhelmed by the size of our goals that we forget that every big achievement is made up of smaller, more manageable parts. Want to read more? Start with one chapter a day, or even a few pages. Pick a book that speaks to your current need. Want to reconnect with an old passion? Carve out 10 minutes for it daily. The key is to start, however small. Progress is progress, no matter how tiny the step.

2. Stop Planning, Start Doing

Planning is comforting. It makes us feel like we’re working towards something. But let’s be honest—how often does planning become a way of procrastinating? If you’ve spent the better part of the year talking about a goal—be it losing weight, learning a new skill, or making a career change—now’s the time to move from dreaming to doing. Execution is everything. Even if it’s a short walk today, or drafting that overdue email—take that step. Movement creates momentum.

3. Be Bold, Be Courageous

Moving forward isn’t always easy. Fear and obstacles often stand in the way, but courage means acting in spite of them. When you feel resistance—whether it’s self-doubt, external challenges, or just plain exhaustion—ask yourself, “So what?” Push through with boldness. The real magic happens when you choose to move forward, notwithstanding the difficulties. Courage isn’t about the absence of fear—it’s about pressing on in the face of it.

4. Build a Support System

No one forges forward alone. We all need people who can remind us of our strength when we forget, who can keep us accountable when we waver. Find those people. Whether it’s a mentor, a friend, or a group of like-minded individuals—surround yourself with a support system that lifts you up. Someone has already conquered the mountain you’re climbing; seek them out. We’re stronger together.

5. Write to Declutter

Sometimes the biggest roadblock to moving forward is the clutter in our minds. Writing, even just for yourself, is a powerful tool. It’s not about creating polished prose; it’s about releasing the tangled mess of thoughts crowding your brain. Write down your fears, your hopes, your unfinished to-do list. The simple act of putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) often brings clarity where there was chaos. And with clarity comes direction.

6. Embrace the Stretch

Growth doesn’t happen in comfort zones. If you want to end this year