Designing Your Year: 5 Powerful Questions to Reflect and Refocus

As the holiday season wraps around us with its warmth and wonder, it’s the perfect time to take a pause. Whether you’re cozied up by the fire or savoring a quiet moment after a whirlwind year, I want to offer you a chance to reflect, refocus, and reignite your energy for the year ahead.

For many of us, 2024 has been a mix of challenges, growth, and triumphs. I’m a firm believer that taking stock of what we’ve learned and where we’ve been not only grounds us but also sets the stage for an inspired leap into the new year. So, let’s dive into five powerful questions that can guide you through this season of reflection and help you design a 2025 that aligns with your vision, values, and vitality.
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1. What Are Your Top 3 Wins from 2024?

We often get caught up in “what’s next” without fully appreciating how far we’ve come. Take a moment to think about your biggest achievements this year. Maybe it was a major project at work, a personal milestone, or even a lesson you finally mastered. Write them down, celebrate them, and let them remind you of what you’re capable of.

One of my wins this year? Watching my client’s step into their power as leaders and seeing their confidence ripple through their teams. That’s why I love what I do!
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2. What Did You Learn?

Every challenge carries a hidden gift. What lessons did this year bring to you? Perhaps it was about resilience, adaptability, or the importance of clear communication. This isn’t about beating yourself up over what didn’t go perfectly—it’s about extracting wisdom from your experiences.

Pro tip: Share these lessons with your team. Vulnerability and reflection can create deeper trust and connection.
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3. What’s Your Vision for 2025?

Now comes the fun part—dreaming big! Picture yourself a year from now. What have you accomplished? How does your professional life align with your personal goals? Create a vision board (digital or physical) that brings your dreams to life.

I love adding a little sparkle to this process by including images, quotes, and even some aspirational travel destinations. This exercise isn’t just creative—it’s magnetic. When you see your goals daily, they stay top of mind.
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4. How Will You Recharge This Holiday Season?

Before you dive into the new year, make sure your tank is full. Whether it’s unplugging from work for a few days, enjoying time in nature, or indulging in your favorite hobbies, make space for activities that restore your energy.

For me, it’s all about long walks outdoors, time with family, and plotting my next weekend getaway. What’s your favorite way to recharge?
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5. What’s Your One-Word Theme for 2025?

This is one of my favorite traditions: Choose a single word to guide your year. It might be “Elevate,” “Balance,” or “Focus.” Let it remind you of what matters most and set the tone for how you show up every day.

My word for 2025? “Impact.” I want to continue helping leaders like you create meaningful change in your careers, your teams, and your lives.
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Let’s Design 2025 Together!

The holiday season is a time to reflect, to dream, and to step boldly into what’s next. I’d love to hear from you—what’s your one-word theme for 2025? Drop it in the comments, and let’s inspire each other to make this our best year yet.

If you’re ready to hit the ground running with a game plan tailored to your goals, let’s make it happen together!

 Click HERE to get on my calendar, and we’ll create a strategy for 2025 that aligns with your vision and empowers you to lead with confidence and clarity.

Here’s to a holiday season filled with joy, gratitude, and intention—and to a 2025 that’s as extraordinary as you are.

With energy and enthusiasm,
Karie Millspaugh
Award-Winning Motivational Speaker, Business Strategist, and Executive Coach