Ending the Year On Purpose - Part 1
I love having end-of-year wrap-up conversations with the leaders I get to coach. These have been some of my favorite conversations for years because rich, honest moments of clarity have room to emerge when we stop long enough to consider: What did this year really hold? What did I learn? What do I want to carry forward, and what needs to stay behind?
Ending the year on purpose postures me to start the new year on purpose. And the same is true for you.
As we move through these final (busy) weeks of 2025, I want to share my personal end-of-year wrap-up plan (it’s also the same one I’ve walked hundreds of executive leaders through).
Today, we are focusing on remembering. Next week, I will pop back into your inbox with a few straightforward to-dos to help you step into 2026 with confidence and intention.
Psalm 77:11-12 says:
I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.
Biblical remembering is not passive. It’s purposeful. It’s looking back with honesty and gratitude so we can move forward with wisdom. When we pause long enough to remember what shaped us, challenged us, and carried us, the year becomes a teacher rather than a blur.
To help you remember, I’ve created a simple Reflection Guide. Please take a moment to download it and enjoy working through it.
Additionally, as you look toward increasing your intentionality in 2026, consider the following categories and questions.
Rhythms & Routines. Our lives (and the effectiveness of our leadership) rise or fall on the quality of our rhythms. Routines either support the life you desire to live or quietly sabotage it. Take some time to consider the habits shaping your days and your work.
How do I want to start/end my days differently?
Is there a rhythm or routine I need to start, stop, or tweak to maximize my days or weeks?
Is there a rhythm or routine I need to start, stop or tweak to cultivate health (physically, emotionally, spiritually, etc.)?
Skills & Knowledge. One of the ways we glorify God in and through our work is by becoming great at what we do! These questions invite you to consider where you want to sharpen your craft in the year ahead.
What skill can I sharpen or develop?
What knowledge can I gain to strengthen my insight and expertise?
What do I need to practice to build toward mastery?
One of the central themes of Advent is God with us. As you look back over 2025, I hope you see evidence of His presence woven through your year: in the milestone moments and throughout the mundane, in the strength you didn’t think you had, in the unexpected and planned, and in the moments of growth you didn’t know to ask for.
As you reflect, hold on to this truth: God is present in the year you are finishing and in the one to come. He is ahead of you in 2026—preparing, strengthening, and guiding.
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