Wait...What? 2024 is Over?

It’s 3 weeks to 2025! Where did 2024 go?

In December, many people start thinking about new year resolutions.

Typical resolutions include eating healthier and exercising more. Especially after one too many parties!

On the topic of resolutions for 2025, how about trying to improve on a specific Professional Trait or Skill that you could work on for the year?

In my last newsletter, I recommended that you assess your career health and seek feedback on your strengths and skills as well as any blindspots to focus on. ?

As a personal example, I’m constantly working on improving my communication style, which is a really broad concept.

I broke it down into its core elements and focused on ONE element to work on – how to convey difficult messages diplomatically.

Based on this, I crafted multiple actionable items that can be practiced for the year:

• Breathing techniques and visual reminders to breathe (for example, post-it notes on my monitor and peaceful landscape at my work desk)
• Build a vocabulary of alternative responses for multiple scenarios by following numerous communications experts on social media
• Establish several feedback loops - a group of trusted friends/colleagues/mentors who can provide useful insights and practical advice
• Read multiple books on communications

Perhaps you’ve decided that 2025 is the year to get a raise or to get promoted.

But career acceleration is a broad concept.

My suggestion is to Zoom in on amplifying ONE area, such as improving your presentation skills. In which case, your SMART plans for next year could include:

• Actively seeking more opportunities to conduct presentations
• Identifying networks who can open up those opportunities
• Following industry speakers on social media to pick up tips
• Asking for direct feedback after each presentation

So many people tend to try to do too much at once, and it can be overwhelming.

And many clients I’ve spoken with are also too hard on themselves.?

In a nutshell, try focusing on just one area to work on and make concrete plans for the year. I’m confident you will see progress in other areas too!

And by the way...

If you’re looking for ideas on what to work on for 2025, you may want to try our latest tool, COACHCarol.ai.

As a subscriber to this newsletter, here is an early preview link you can use before the official launch! (click here!) Have a go!?

Have a wonderful Christmas and year-end holiday! Here’s to your Career Health for 2025!

Best regards

Yen

Do you have a pressing career question? Come talk to us! Drop us an email at [email protected] today!