Making December Count
As the final chapter of the year unfolds, December often carries a certain duality. On one hand, it’s a time of celebration, holiday cheer, and reflection. On the other hand, it can be a slippery slope into a mentality of fatigue, procrastination, and the idea that “it’s been a long year—let’s just coast into the new one.” But what if we flipped the script? What if December wasn’t about slowing down but gearing up for what’s next?
In the Make December Count episode of our podcast Let’s Talk People Development with Luke & Danny, the guys dive into this very idea: how to finish the year intentionally, break the cycle of “it can wait until the new year” and set the stage for a powerful start to 2025. Inspired by their conversation, here’s how we can rethink the last month of the year and make it count.
Shift Your Mentality: December Does Count
The first step to making December meaningful is to reject the mindset that it’s a throwaway month. Many of us fall into the trap of thinking that since the year is nearly over, our actions won’t make a difference. However, as Luke and Danny discuss, December is a critical time to tie up loose ends and prepare for a great start in January.
Rather than seeing December as the end, view it as a launchpad. A month spent with purpose and focus can set you up not just for a productive January but for an entire year of momentum. Ask yourself: What small actions can I take this month to make starting 2025 feel seamless and exciting?
Finish What Needs Finishing
One of the biggest takeaways from the podcast is the idea of closing open loops - what if there isn’t time to do it in January? These are the unfinished projects, delayed decisions, and lingering tasks that weigh us down. Leaving them unresolved as the year ends only adds unnecessary baggage to the start of the new year or leaving it open to miss out completing the tasks entirely?
Identify what still needs to be done in both your personal and professional life. This could include:
Finalising work projects so you don’t carry them into January.
Decluttering your home or workspace to create a more organised environment.
Completing health checkups or financial planning for peace of mind.
By wrapping up these tasks, you’re creating space—not just physically, but mentally—for new opportunities and goals in the coming year.
Reflect on the Year with Gratitude and Clarity
December isn’t just about planning ahead; it’s also a time for reflection. Take stock of the year—what you’ve achieved, the challenges you’ve faced, and the lessons you’ve learned. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small, and express gratitude for the progress you’ve made.
But reflection isn’t just about looking back; it’s also about gaining clarity for the future. As you assess the past year, consider:
What worked well for you, and how can you build on it?
What would you have done differently, and what needs to change?
What are your areas of development for 2025?
What goals and behaviours will guide you in 2025?
This exercise not only helps you appreciate the journey but also sharpens your focus for what’s next.
Set the Stage for 2025
Let’s talk about the importance of preparation. A great start to the new year isn’t something that happens by chance—it’s the result of intentional planning. Use December to lay the groundwork for your 2025 goals. Here’s how:
Define your priorities: What are the top three things you want to achieve in 2025? Write them down and visualise what success looks like.
Break down your goals: Outline the first few steps you’ll need to take in January to move toward your objectives. This will make them feel more actionable and less daunting.
Build positive habits: Start incorporating small, sustainable habits now rather than waiting for January 1st. Whether it’s a morning routine, exercise, or mindful journaling, consistency is key.
End the Year on a High Note
Making December count doesn’t mean working yourself to exhaustion or ignoring the joy of the holiday season. Balance is essential. As you push to finish strong, carve out time for rest, connection, and celebration. This dual focus on productivity and well-being is what allows you to end the year with both fulfillment and energy.
Consider setting aside time to:
Reconnect with friends and family.
Indulge in hobbies or creative pursuits.
Reflect on what brings you joy and purpose.
By ending the year on a high note, you’re not only closing the chapter with positivity but also stepping into the new year with a refreshed mindset.
December is more than a time to start shutting down, celebrating and wrapping gifts—it’s an opportunity to wrap up the year intentionally and sip on the sweet satisfaction of a job well done. By shifting your mentality, closing open loops, and laying the groundwork for the future, you can break the cycle of coasting and create a December that truly counts.
As Luke and Danny remind us, the year isn’t over until it’s over. There’s still time to make progress, reflect, and set the stage for your best year yet. So, let’s embrace December not as an end but as the powerful beginning of what’s to come.