The fresh energy at the start of a new year may feel like a distant memory and for many, the reality of the daily grind has set in. If you’re feeling like the year is slipping away and you haven’t made the progress you intended, don’t worry – it’s not too late to hit reset!
In our latest Leadership Unlocked podcast episode, we discussed how to make this year different, grow into your full potential and embrace change with the right growth mindset. Here are some key takeaways and practical tips to help you take action now.
1. It’s Never Too Late to Reset
The biggest misconception is thinking that if you haven’t made progress by now, you’ve missed your chance. The truth? Every day is an opportunity to reset. Whether you focus on the next nine months, the next quarter, or even just the next 30 days, you can start fresh at any time.
Tip: Set a short-term goal to focus on for the rest of this month. What’s one thing you’d like to achieve?
2. Small Steps Lead to Big Change
Most success stories aren’t built on giant leaps but on thousands of small, consistent steps. As the saying goes, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Stick it with, trust the process and have a plan!
Tip: Identify one small step you can take today. Whether it’s setting up a meeting, researching a new tool, or reaching out to a mentor, just get started.
3. Growth Happens Outside Your Comfort Zone
Humans seek comfort, even when it’s no longer serving us. But staying in your comfort zone won’t help you grow. The world is changing all around us and you don’t want to fall behind!
Tip: Challenge yourself to do one thing this week that makes you uncomfortable. It could be giving feedback, speaking up in a meeting, or trying a new approach to a challenge.
4. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
One of the biggest barriers to change is waiting until everything is “just right.” What matters most is taking action, learning as you go and adjusting along the way.
Tip: Instead of aiming for perfect, aim for progress. Ask yourself: What’s one thing I can do a little better today than yesterday?
1% growth is still growth.
5. Reflect on Your Leadership
To make this year different in your leadership, think of your team’s performance. If your team isn’t performing as you’d like, ask yourself: Am I leading them well? Creating the right environment for success is your role as a leader. Feedback, clarity and direction are key.
Tip: Take 10 minutes today to reflect. How clear have you been with your team? Where can you offer more guidance or support?
6. Stop Doing and Start Thinking
Busy doesn’t mean productive. Many leaders get caught in the trap of working on technical tasks, mistaking action for progress. The most successful leaders step back, think and focus on what truly matters – the thinking, not the doing.
Tip: Block out 30 minutes this week to think, not do. Use it to reflect on strategy, problem-solve, or plan proactively rather than reactively.
Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Hint: there isn’t one. Whether it’s planning ahead, giving more feedback, or embracing change, small actions today will lead to big results over time.
What’s one step you’ll take this week to make 2025 your best year yet?
