Workplace Multiplier by Tola Akinsulire

Friday Edition: December 27, 2024

Welcome to the Workplace Multiplier newsletter. Published every Tuesday & Friday, we discover something crucial to help us on the way to winning at work and in life.

How You Start the New Year Now

Every January, millions set lofty goals. By February, 92% have already fallen off track. But here’s the kicker: it’s not the goals themselves that fail. It’s us.

But first, let’s remind ourselves about December.

Why the Holidays Are Your Secret Weapon

Yes, December comes with holidays. But the holiday season is more than a time to unwind; it’s an opportunity to pause, reflect, and recalibrate. Yet, many career professionals fall into one of two traps:

They treat the holidays as a complete free-for-all, abandoning structure entirely.

They work straight through, thinking they’re “gaining an edge.”

The result?

The new year starts with either sluggishness or burnout—neither of which sets you up for success.

The Science of Refreshing Before Planning

According to Alex Soojung-Kim Pang in his book “Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less”, research that shows how rest helps us to think, innovate, and increase our productivity, and what we can do to rest more effectively.

Think about that: your brain is your greatest asset, and the holidays are the perfect time to recharge it.

But resting isn’t enough. Reflection and strategic planning must follow. Without them, your next year’s goals will lack direction and sustainability.

Successful professionals use the holiday season as their secret weapon. They understand that while others are mindlessly rushing through December, they're gaining clarity, crafting strategies, and positioning themselves for breakthrough performances.

Why Skipping Holiday Planning Is a Productivity Killer

Imagine building a house without a blueprint. That’s what starting the new year without a plan looks like. Career professionals who skip this critical step often end up:

Chasing tasks that don’t align with their long-term goals.

Falling prey to distractions because they lack focus.

Burning out because they haven’t built time for renewal into their schedules.

Your 3-Step Action Plan

Ready to make this holiday season your launching pad for success? Here’s how:

1 . Reflect: Take time during the holidays to reflect on the following:

• What went well this year?
• What challenges did I face, and how did I overcome them?
• What do I want to carry forward, and what needs to change?

2 . Recharge: Commit to non-negotiable rest. Whether it’s spending quality time with loved ones, indulging in a favorite hobby, or simply sleeping in, prioritize activities that replenish your energy.

3 . Recalibrate: Dedicate time to map out the first quarter of your new year:

• Identify your top three goals.
• Break them into actionable steps.
• Block time on your calendar for focused work, reflection, and rest.

Let’s Make 2025 Your Breakthrough Year

The secret to a high-performing new year isn’t in January. It’s in how you approach December. This holiday season, don’t just celebrate; strategize.

Here's my challenge to you: Don't let another year slip by on autopilot.

The difference between where you are and where you want to be is often just a matter of strategic planning and intentional execution.

Let’s ensure you’re part of the 8% who turn their goals into reality.

Keep winning at work and in life.

Tola Akinsulire

I am a Workplace Multiplier.

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Want to get in on some of the lessons I have picked up in my career? Get my eBook "21 Lessons I Learned in My Career - A Primer to Help You Become Better at Work". Get it here

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