How to plan for the year ahead

The end of a year is often a natural time for reflection: what have we achieved, what is left to achieve and what is holding us back?

It is a cliché, of course, to say, “New year, new you!” By the end of January, we may all be thoroughly tired of reading it on the front pages of magazines, newspapers and websites.

But why not get ahead of it? There is no reason to put your dreams on hold until the new year. Start now.

A coaching session often begins by asking clients these questions:

1. What has gone well for you since we last met or spoke?
2. What has not gone so well?
3. What do you need support with now?

What would your answers be?

A coach may also ask whether there are any ongoing limiting behaviours or beliefs that may hold you back. Sometimes it’s hard for you to identify these, as they can feel like your default setting. This is where a coach can help.

Listening carefully to the language you use, it may be apparent to your coach that your limiting behaviour and beliefs centre around former negative experiences, meaning you expect the same to happen again. This can become a form of self-sabotage. You may be creating a barrier that exists more in your mind than in reality.

Imagine you have a clean slate for the year ahead. What do you want to achieve? What has held you back this year? Maybe it’s a lack of confidence, indecision, fear of failure, fear of success or a dislike of change?

These are issues coaches work with all the time, and there are solutions.

Exercise: planning for the year ahead

Try this exercise to help you start planning:

• List your great qualities and achievements. Don’t be shy; make that list.
• Aim for 20 words or phrases that describe you at your best.
• How can you harness these qualities to change your life for the better?
• What is left that you may need help with?
• How can you find that help, and what is your timescale for change?