What a year! Instead of a handful of bright, shiny material things all I really want for Christmas is an effective COVID-19 vaccine, a safe environment for my friends and family, the opportunity for every person to use their abilities and make a genuine contribution to the greater good, and a return to the days when leadership was about the capacity to bring people together and push forward, rather than simply the loudest or most consistent voice – surely not too much to ask!
This year has taught us resilience and patience. We have had a stark reminder of what is really important in life. We have learned the painful lesson of expecting life to be on a constant, consistent path and promise to approach life like an optimist but plan like a pessimist – personally and professionally.
As 2020 comes to a close, it is a great time to reflect on your achievements during the year before setting goals for 2021. While it is easy to focus on the usual set of goals, save more money, get promoted at work, lose weight, it is also important to reflect on what events or memories that really stood out to you.
Take time to ask yourself some questions about your experiences in 2020:
Sherry Swain, research associate at the National Writing Project, puts it perfectly when she says: “Reflection enables us to evaluate experience, learn from mistakes, repeat successes, revise and plan.”
Before you start planning your goals for 2021, make sure you take time to reflect on the year that was.
So, here’s to a fresh start with renewed energy and vigour in 2021. Stay safe, stay well and we’ll look forward to working with you again in the New Year to make the most of the opportunities available to you on your pathway.
Our office will be closed from Thursday, 24 December 2020 and will reopen on Monday, 11 January 2021.