Review 2022, optimize for 2023
“Your outcomes are a lagging measure of your habits. Your net worth is a lagging measure of your financial habits. Your weight is a lagging measure of your eating habits. Your knowledge is a lagging measure of your learning habits. Your clutter is a lagging measure of your cleaning habits.” As James Clear says, “You get what you repeat.”
Where we are today is a lagging indicator of what we have done in the last 3-6-12 months (or more).
One of the most powerful practices I’ve implemented in the last few years is to take time to reflect on the last year and plan for the coming year. By analyzing our past behaviours and patterns, we can identify areas for improvement and set goals for the future. We can identify patterns and opportunities for improvement. This can be especially valuable as we transition into a new year.
I’ve implemented this practice for the last few years and have greatly benefited from it.
Here are a few ideas on how to do it effectively if you want to do it yourself.
Have a structured review process:
Block time in your calendar to dedicate to your yearly review.
Choose your method of choice (notes app, notebook, etc.)
Identify your priorities (career, finances, personal development, health & friends and family, fitness, etc.)
Perform a SWOT analysis on yourself and all of your priorities (Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats)
Look for patterns
Create a goal hierarchy for the different aspects of your life (my new goal-setting guide would be useful here)
Create an action plan
Plan for a periodic review of your action plan (weekly, monthly, quarterly)
Ask the right questions:
What are my biggest wins last year?
What are my biggest challenges and struggles last year?
What do I need to do more of?
What do I need to do less of?
Where do I spend my time in ways that bring me closer to my “ideal self”?
Where do I spend my time in ways that push me away from my “ideal self”?
How can I modify my environment to do more of X?
How can I modify my environment to do less of Y?
What are the highest leverage activities I can do to achieve X?
What are the lowest-hanging fruits to improve right now?
This practice has honestly been a game changer for me, personally and professionally. I'd love to exchange ideas if you give it a shot or follow a similar process.
PS: Here is the link to download my Goal Setting Guide
