Unlocking December's Potential: Organize and Thrive
December often sweeps in with a whirlwind of holiday festivities, diverting our focus and slowing down our work pace. As noted in a survey by Peakon, distractions begin in November, with a significant drop in productivity by mid-December. But, what if these quieter workdays could be transformed into an oasis of productivity and preparation?
Harnessing the Gift of Time
With holiday schedules tapering off, December presents a golden opportunity to refocus and reorganize. Professionals like Kira Byrd, co-founder of Curl Centric, advocate for a thorough year-end clean-up, purging unnecessary emails, and reorganizing both physical and digital workspaces to minimize errors in the upcoming months.
Reflect and Re-imagine
Holistic therapist Blanka Molnar emphasizes the importance of reflection. December’s downtime is perfect for evaluating past achievements and planning future goals. Selecting a “focus word” or trying a planning tool like the Wheel of Life can provide clarity and direction for the year ahead.
Broadening Horizons: Beyond Work Goals
Molnar encourages setting goals beyond the professional realm. Envision personal development, nurturing relationships, exploring new hobbies, or planning future travels. These goals can enrich our lives and provide a satisfying sense of progress that complements career achievements.
Showcase Your Achievements
As the year draws to a close, don’t shy away from recognizing your accomplishments. Karla Eidem from the Project Management Institute recommends using quiet days to highlight personal milestones. Sharing insights within your network not only bolsters your professional persona but also instills a sense of gratitude and achievement.
Conclusion: Embracing the Break
December doesn’t have to be a lull but a time of strategic intervention that enhances productivity. By decluttering our minds and spaces, setting insightful goals, and acknowledging our successes, we can march confidently into the new year, armed with clarity and direction. As stated in Boston Herald, these techniques are more than mere tasks—they are pathways to growth.
Embrace December’s potential, and you might be surprised at the sense of satisfaction and readiness it can bring for the new year.
Tribune News Service
