The beginning of a new year always feels like a gift—a blank page ready for your story. It’s a chance to leave the past behind, dream boldly, and embrace the belief that anything is possible.
I’m reminded of a powerful quote by Derek Sivers:
“Don’t be on your deathbed someday, having squandered your one chance at life, full of regret because you pursued little distractions instead of big dreams.”
This resonates deeply. As we grow older, we often stop dreaming big. Life gets busy, and we focus more on daily tasks than daring to envision the extraordinary. But dreaming is essential—it’s the first step toward building the life you truly want.
Dream About Your Best Future
As you prepare for an abundant 2025, I invite you to pause and dream. Start by asking yourself:
- What life am I aspiring to build?
- What do I want from my work?
- What does my dream workday look like?
Let your imagination run wild. This isn’t about being realistic; it’s about envisioning the life you’d love to create.
Anchor Yourself in Your Values
Dreams are powerful, but they need a foundation—your values. Reflect on these questions:
- What drives me to take action?
- Who are the people I admire most, and what values do they live by?
Clarity on your values will help you build a life aligned with what truly matters to you.
Reflect on 2024: Lessons and Growth
Before charging ahead, take a moment to reflect on the year you’re leaving behind:
- What is the most important thing I learned in 2024?
- What worked well?
- What didn’t work, and what can I learn from it?
Every success and failure carries a lesson—mine it for all it’s worth.
Set Inspiring Goals for 2025
Now it’s time to dream forward. What do you want to accomplish in the year ahead?
- What are my top three goals for 2025?
- Who do I need to become to achieve these goals?
- What habits or disciplines will help me?
James Clear said, “Every action you take is a vote for the person you want to become. This is also a great time to identify habits you need to leave behind—ones that don’t serve the person you’re becoming. I’m a big fan of the 6Fs Framework to make this more practical.
Commit to Growth
Think about the one area where improvement will create the most impact in your life. Ask yourself:
- What’s the ONE thing that, if I master it, will move me closer to my dream?
Choose a personal development goal (like becoming a better communicator) or a technical skill to refine (I’m working on succession planning expertise) . Small, focused growth compounds into remarkable progress.
Build an Intentional Network
No one achieves greatness alone. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you:
- Ups – Who are the mentors I need to guide me?
- Outs – Which peers can I run alongside?
- Downs – Who can I mentor to lift others as I climb?
Consider making a list of “ups, outs, and downs” to clarify your support system.
Stay Accountable
Accountability turns plans into results. Reflect on how you’ll stay on track:
- How will I hold myself accountable in 2025?
- Is there someone I can partner with for mutual accountability?
A trusted partner or coach can help keep you aligned with your vision.
A Powerful Question to Guide You
When all else fails, return to this simple yet profound question from Dan Sullivan:
“If you and I were meeting on December 31, 2025, what would have to happen for you to feel thrilled about your progress?”
Answer honestly and let that vision drive your daily actions.
The ROI of Reflection
Thinking deeply about these questions is one of the best investments you can make. Here’s to making 2025 a year of bold action, incredible growth, and more abundant living.
Rooting for you in 2025,
Kendall
