Whether you’ve had a record-breaking year or a back-breaking one – the festive period is the perfect time to find a quiet spot and reflect.

Businesses have a way of repeating lessons that need to be learned – relentlessly and increasingly – until they are taken on board and acted on.

Here are 5 great questions and challenges to help you review the past year – because if you’re not changing it, you’re choosing it.

 

What went well – and why?

Grab a piece of paper and list your wins, achievements, and milestones.

Whether it’s a business breakthrough or a personal accomplishment, it very likely did not happen by accident: what was your role in making it happen?

 

Where were the ‘misses’ and why?

It’s not always comfortable but take time to assess where you fell short.

Were your goals realistic? Did you focus your energy on the wrong things?

 

Who or what created the energy?

Everyone team has radiators and drains: reflect on the people who brought the energy this year. Who is ready to step up and take on more responsibilities?

When were you personally happiest and most energised? What habits bring the best out of you?

 

What drained energy or created stress?

Identify what didn’t serve you well – whether it’s an unhelpful routine, certain commitments, people or personal habits.

Do you need to let go of an employee? A client? A product? Or marketing strategy?

 

What big lessons do you need to learn?

Growth comes from reflection. Ask yourself what fundamental lessons has this year taught you?

What do you need to start doing, stop doing, do more of or less of?

 

More on this

There’s a great book for this type of constructive self-reflection call The Road Less Stupid by Keith Cunningham. It goes into much more detail and is designed to be used as an ongoing guide for thinking deeply about the component parts of your business.

And if you’re ready to take a proper look at your plans and prospects – or just want an informal chat with an objective expert – here’s how you can get in touch.

 

Have a very happy festive season and here’s to a healthy, happy and prosperous 2026.