As the end of the year continues to draw near, there’s a rush of thoughts: wrapping up projects, finishing the last tasks on your to-do list, and of course, preparing for the big plans you have for the upcoming year. I’ve heard about burn out before, but I think this is the first time that I am fully experiencing it because I am trying to push the hardest now, so I can end the year with a ‘BANG’. But I am exhausted and I believe that there should be a different way to go about it, right?

So how can you (and me) plan for a productive new year, without feeling the need to work straight through the holidays? Here are a few key ideas that I think we can explore:

1. Reflect on What’s Worked (and What Hasn’t)

Before diving into the chaos of goal-setting for the new year, take a moment to reflect on the past year. What’s worked well? What didn’t quite go according to plan? Understanding these things can help you avoid repeating mistakes and give you insight into what truly brought you joy and success.

Take a few quiet moments (perhaps with a cup of tea or in a calm space) to jot down your key reflections. The insights you gain will help you move into the new year with a sense of clarity and purpose. This isn’t about dwelling on what went wrong; it’s about using those lessons to guide your future choices.

2. Set Intentions, Not Resolutions

The pressure to create new year’s resolutions can be overwhelming. It’s easy to feel like you need to set a huge, life-changing goal, but that approach often leaves us burned out by February. This year, what if we tried setting intentions instead of resolutions? Intentions are softer, more adaptable, and focus on how you want to feel, not just what you want to do.

Do you want to feel more balanced in your work-life? More present in your relationships? More creative in your personal projects? Setting intentions allows for flexibility and encourages a mindset shift rather than locking you into rigid goals. These gentle nudges toward a certain way of being will help you stay focused without the pressure to “achieve” everything at once.

3. Take Inventory of Your Energy

At this time of year, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement (or stress) of the holidays. But before you dive into your goal-setting for the new year, ask yourself how you’re currently feeling. Are you running on empty, or are you feeling energized and clear?

Taking inventory of your energy levels will help you make smarter choices moving into the new year. If you’re feeling drained, it’s essential to plan some time to recharge before starting anything new. If you’re feeling energized, use that momentum to kick-start some low-stakes planning and reflection. Listen to your body—it’s the key to knowing how much you can truly commit to in the coming months.

4. Create a Simple Action Plan for January

Planning for the new year doesn’t have to mean laying out an exhaustive list of tasks and goals. In fact, it’s best to keep it simple and prioritize the first few weeks. Think about what you’d like to accomplish in January and set a few achievable, intentional goals. Focus on small, bite-sized actions that won’t overwhelm you.

Rather than over-scheduling your time, create space for the new year’s goals to unfold naturally. This might mean blocking out time for important projects but also leaving room for rest, creative thinking, and connections with others.

5. Make Time for Rest and Recharging

This one might seem counterintuitive if you're a go-getter, but trust me—it’s crucial. Setting yourself up for success in the new year isn’t about pushing yourself to exhaustion right before the break. In fact, a big part of successful planning is knowing when to take a step back and recharge.

While it’s tempting to “finish strong” at the year’s end, make sure you also schedule intentional downtime. Whether it’s taking a few days to relax, reading a book, or simply disconnecting from work emails, you’ll return to your goals in the new year with a clear mind and fresh energy. Remember: rest is a powerful part of productivity.

6. Celebrate Your Wins, No Matter How Small

Before diving into planning for the new year, take a moment to celebrate how far you’ve come. The end of the year is a great time to reflect on everything you’ve accomplished, no matter how big or small. Celebrate the milestones, the lessons learned, and the personal growth you’ve experienced.

This isn’t about checking things off a list—it’s about recognizing the effort you’ve put in and honoring your progress. Taking time to appreciate your wins will fuel your motivation for the year ahead.

From one perfectionist to another, this is your gentle reminder that: this year, we’re moving forward with intention, not perfection. Take it one step at a time, and allow yourself the space to grow into the year ahead.