As 2024 draws to a close, there’s the temptation to make big New Year’s resolutions, inspired by the desire to do things better in 2025. This is not a bad thing, but as many of us know, the gym memberships and diet plans quickly get sidelined as the stress of the new year takes root.

With this in mind, instead of writing up a list of things to change in 2025, which will most likely leave you feeling disappointed by February, perhaps the time would be better spent on reflection. After all, the most effective progress happens through learning. There’s value in reflecting on the impact 2024 has had on your life.

Too often we unknowingly accept imposter syndrome, thinking that we haven’t progressed much. Being passed up for promotion. Not progressing in the interview stage for a job you really wanted. Even not being able to keep a particularly troublesome project on track. Sometimes we’re too hard on ourselves. Yes, it may be an unforgiving world we live in, but we forget about the small victories and learnings along the way.

The outcomes may not be the ones we desired. Our proception of ourselves may not even be that positive, but it also may not be accurate. Sometimes we’ve made more of an impact than we believe. In looking back at experiences and interactions of the past year, we can be reminded of that. What if you change the scorecard and instead focus on what you’ve achieved in terms of connection, influence and well-being?

Connection is not just about the number of LinkedIn contacts or followers you have. It’s also about getting clarity your personal priorities and goals. Instinctively we thrive when we’re doing what we love. If you don’t feel that way about work, it could mean that it’s time for a new opportunity or direction.

Influence is often used as a synonym for persuading others. On a personal level though, what influences your thought process and decisions? Is it the expectations of others? Is it comparing yourself to colleagues? Is it a desire to have a more purpose aligned job, one that is inspired by personal values? Analysing those voices of influence can help you to determine which to listen to and which to ignore.

Well-being is frequently aligned with having a good work-life balance. Something, that most of the time, feels like it’s impossible to achieve. Instead of focusing on balance, consider priorities. When those are clear, there’s less push and pull in different directions and it can free up your mind. That’s a positive step towards well-being.