From Reflection to Action-Your Path to Success in 2025

Last week, we focused on setting ourselves up for success in 2025. This week, we're taking a step back to evaluate 2024. But make no mistake—the mission stays the same: we’re stepping into 2025 with clear intention and a relentless drive to make it a year of growth and achievement.

As 2024 winds down, I find myself asking the same question I do every year:

I didn’t always approach the end of the year this way. For years, I’d rush into January with resolutions, only to realize by February that I hadn’t truly reflected on what worked—or didn’t—over the past year. But when I began making reflection a regular habit, everything shifted.

Now, I want to encourage you to try the same. Reflecting on the past gives you a chance to gain focus, discover new insights, and pinpoint what needs to change so you can make 2025 your most impactful year yet. This simple practice can offer you a powerful blueprint for moving forward.

How It Works

Reflection isn't about rehashing every moment or obsessing over what you didn’t do. It’s about asking key questions that provide insight into your growth, lessons learned, and the changes you're ready to make. Here’s how to get started:

1. Set aside quiet time for introspection—grab a beverage, find a comfortable spot, start a good playlist, and take a few deep breaths.
2. Review each question slowly, giving yourself time to reflect on the past year. Don’t rush to find the "right" answer. Let your thoughts unfold naturally.
3. Write down your answers. Even if you only jot a few words or phrases, the act of putting your thoughts on paper (or screen) solidifies your reflections.
4. Identify patterns as you look over your responses. What stands out? Where did you grow, and where do you want to push further?

The questions below are ones I return to year after year. They're simple but thought-provoking. I hope they spark something meaningful for you, too.

1. What Did I Change My Mind About?

Growth happens when you’re willing to rethink.

I used to believe that success was about always having the right answers. Spoiler: it isn't. However, the most successful people understand the power of asking the right questions. They lean into discomfort, update their beliefs, and aren’t afraid to start over when new information arises.

• What beliefs or ideas did I update this year?
• Where did I embrace being a beginner or admit I was wrong?
• How has this made me stronger, smarter, or more adaptable?

2. What Created Energy for Me?

Pay attention to what lights you up—it’s a map to what matters most.

This year, I paid closer attention to how I spent my time. I realized that the things that energize us aren’t always the biggest or flashiest. For me, it was time outdoors, meaningful connections, and small wins in my daily routines.

• What people, activities, or habits filled my cup?
• Where did I feel most alive, motivated, or at ease?
• How can I build more of this into my life next year?

3. What Drained My Energy?

Identifying what weighs us down is just as important.

I’ll admit, I ignored the warning signs from a few “energy drains” too long this year. Saying yes to too many commitments or sticking with unproductive habits were big lessons in boundaries.

• What left me feeling exhausted, resentful, or stuck?
• Are there people, habits, or commitments that felt like a burden?
• What boundaries do I need to set or adjustments should I make in 2025?

4. What Were My Sandbags?

We all carry things that hold us back—recognizing them is the first step to letting go.

In the gym, when you “sandbag” a workout, you’re holding back, not pushing yourself to your full potential. In life, sandbags are the unnecessary weights that slow us down. For me, it was self-limiting beliefs and overthinking. Acknowledging these helped me see that weight, release it and plan to move forward.

• What beliefs, behaviors, or relationships slowed my progress?
• Were there moments where I got in my own way?
• How can I release or minimize these sandbags in the year ahead?

5. What Did Fear Hold Me Back From?

Fear often hides the things we most need to face.

Fear can be sneaky. Sometimes it shows up as procrastination or perfectionism. Looking back, I see moments I hesitated, and in hindsight, the risks weren’t as big as I imagined.

• What did I avoid because I was scared of failure or judgment?
• Looking back, what was the real risk? What was the missed opportunity?
• How can I challenge myself to take that leap next year?

6. What Were My Greatest Hits and Misses?

Taking stock helps us celebrate our wins and learn from our stumbles. We all have biases that shape how we view our year. The optimist sees the cup half full; the pessimist sees it half empty. I try to remember that I have a cup, and there’s something in it.

When I think about my greatest hits, they weren’t always the big, shiny accomplishments—they were the moments I showed up, even when it was hard. As for the misses? They’re just as valuable because they point to what I can improve.

• What were my proudest moments or biggest accomplishments?
• What mistakes or setbacks have taught me valuable lessons?
• How did these experiences shape my growth?

7. What Did I Learn?

Every year brings lessons—big and small—that deserve to be honored.

This is my favorite question. It’s where everything comes together—what I’ve changed, what I’ve overcome, and what I’ve discovered about myself. Each lesson becomes a stepping stone for the year ahead.

• What new skills, insights, or perspectives did I gain?
• How have I grown emotionally, mentally, or physically?
• How will I carry this knowledge forward into 2025?

Bringing It Home

Reflection isn’t about dwelling on the past or striving for perfection. It’s about understanding yourself. When I look back on my year, I see the messy, imperfect progress that makes life real. The moments I learned, stretched, and even failed are what make me who I am. The same goes for you.

This process doesn’t require hours of journaling or deep soul-searching. It just requires honesty and a little time. Find a quiet moment, grab a drink, and reflect on these questions. You might be surprised by what comes up.

The best part? You don’t need to have everything figured out. Reflection is a practice, not a one-time event. Each year, you build on it, getting one step closer to the life you’re meant to live.

Here’s to charging into 2025 with unstoppable clarity, unwavering courage, and relentless purpose.