I can’t believe it is already November! We are on the threshold of Thanksgiving. Christmas and the holidays will be here before we know it. 

It is so easy to lose motivation and clarity at this time of the year. We’re closing in on the final lap and feeling tired, but that final lap is where races are won and lost. Finishing strong, with a clear mind and open heart, will enable us to launch into 2022 with energy and focus. 

Rather than giving myself a long list of tasks at this time of year, I lean into the joy and reconnection that is synonymous with the holiday season. I double down on my sense of purpose and that gives me the energy to finish strong. For me professionally this includes ensuring my clients are connected to their catalysts, that their leaders are equipped with the strategic and emotional skills they need to drive sustainable change and also that they are excited about their potential to make a difference. 

Personally, I want to end the year strong by committing to a cause close to my heart. I have pledged to run 34 miles during the month of November for the American Diabetes Association. Three generations of my family on my mom’s side have had diabetes so this is a deeply rooted ‘why’ for me. Having that sense of purpose and the knowledge that small steps lead to big changes are helping me to commit to this goal (and the cooler weather certainly helps!). 

Here are some ways you can make the season positive and productive without sacrificing fun and family:

  • Start prioritizing NOW – what are the things you must get done before the end of the year?
  • Make a plan for the rest of the year based around those priorities
  • Be realistic – don’t make your to-do list longer than the time available
  • Don’t over-commit – you don’t have to go to every holiday party!
  • Create micro-goals and share accountability with your team
  • On work days – work. On holidays – don’t! 
  • Communicate – setting clear expectations for the holidays reduces stress for everyone. 
  • Use that EQ – empathy is vital at this time of year. Don’t assume this is a happy time for all.

You decide – the holidays can be about celebration or chaos. 

 

Do the difficult things while they are easy and do the great things while they are small. A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.

Lao Tzu