Before everyone hits pause, time for you to reflect and reset
I used to think December was a write-off month for career planning.
Between holiday parties, year-end wrap-ups, and inboxes full of “Let’s circle back in January,” it felt like a slow crawl toward the finish line.
But over time, I noticed something different.
While most people were winding down, a small group of professionals were quietly planting seeds. Not making bold declarations. Not setting impossible goals.
Just… being intentional.
They’d use the quiet to reconnect with mentors. Send a thoughtful update to a senior leader.
Jot down a few lessons from the year along with a short list of what they wanted more of in the next.
And by February? They weren’t scrambling to get noticed. They already had a head start.
Here’s the thing no one tells you: December isn’t just the end of the year. It’s the soft open of the next one.
It’s your chance to reflect without the pressure of New Year’s energy. To show up before everyone else gets back online, and choose your next move while things are still quiet.
Want to plant a few smart seeds this month? Start here:
1. Reconnect intentionally.
Reach out to one person who’s supported your growth this year. A mentor, peer, or manager. Thank them. Share one thing you're proud of. Let them know what you’re excited about for next year.
2. Reflect with curiosity, not critique.
What gave you energy this year? What drained it? What did you learn about how you want to lead, grow, or show up? Jot it down, even just a few lines.
3. Choose one visibility move.
Is there a win you haven’t shared yet? An idea you’ve been sitting on? A contribution you want more people to know about? Find a quiet way to share it. A team update. A comment in a meeting. A note in your review.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. But you do need to plant the right things and give them room to grow.
January will come with its noise and urgency. But right now? You have space, and that’s where clarity thrives.
What’s one career seed you can plant this month that future-you will thank you for?
Until next time…
Mal
Founder, The Ideas Accelerator
Helping you grow your career with strategic insight and smarter tools.