Reflection and Rest: 10 Ways to Wrap Up 2023

There is a reason it’s called “the most wonderful time of the year”. The holidays running up to the New Year can be very busy but also filled with fun. As you wrap up 2023, here are 10 ways to have a relaxing Christmas break and set yourself up for success in 2024.

1. Practice gratitude

It’s easy to give in to comparison. If you are on social media, you’ll see people with nicer and shinier stuff than yours. This season, choose to look inwards and be thankful.
Gratitude helps you stay in a positive headspace and improves your mental health.
So, pick up a piece of paper and write three things you’re grateful for.

2. Reflect on the past year

If you’ve kept a diary, flip through it. Go through your picture gallery.
Consider these areas: spirituality, finances, career, personal development, health, relationships, hobbies/recreation and community.
What are your proudest accomplishments?
What did you do right? And how were you able to do those? What could you have done better? Why did you not succeed on your resolution/goals?

3. Declutter and Organize your space

Keeping things clean and in the right space can clear your mind, helping you to be more productive.
Here are a few areas to consider organizing: your wardrobe, kitchen, pantry, work area, and even your digital documents.

4. Work on all the personal admin tasks you’ve been putting off

“When I have the time, I will…. (Fill in the gap).” Whatever you’ve been putting off till you have time, write them down and start working on them – closing an account, changing a service provider, donating, decluttering, responding to an email, completing forms, writing lists, cancelling subscriptions, health check-up, etc.
Often, we postpone these tasks because there are no set deadlines. But, we also forego the financial and mental benefits of having them done.
After tackling these frequently-postponed tasks, not only will you feel a sense of achievement, you will also have a clearer mind.

5. Catch up with friends and family

The holiday season is the time to make memories. So, visit, schedule calls, attend events, make time for the people that matter in your life.

6. Sleep

What’s a holiday without quality rest? Good sleep reduces stress, improves your mood and energy levels. With all the busyness, don’t forget to rest. Your body will thank you.

7. Plan for the New Year

Create undisturbed time to plan for 2024. Don’t just think about your goals. Write them down. *Gail Matthews, a psychology professor at Dominican University in California, did a study on goal setting with 267 participants. She found that you are 42 percent more likely to achieve your goals just by writing them down.* Rephrase and link *
In addition, make your goals specific and actionable.
Having clear objectives provides direction and purpose, helping you stay focused and motivated.

8. Do something you enjoy

Take some time to indulge in something that brings you genuine happiness. This could be cooking your favorite meals, going for a nature walk, enjoy watching your favorite movies, or simply curling up with a good book. Doing something you enjoy adds a delightful touch to your year-end routine.

Feeling a bit homesick, one way I’m tackling this holiday season is by enjoying the flavors of home and trying out recipes I’ve always wanted to.

9. Keep healthy

Amidst the year-end hustle, it’s crucial to put your health at the forefront. Weave in healthy food, find time to workout, and drink enough water. Holiday calories count. You don’t want to spend January shopping for new clothes because the old ones don’t fit.
Keeping healthy will set the stage for a vibrant and productive new year.

10. Digital Detox

Take a break from excessive screen time. Unplugging from digital devices for a day or a weekend can help refresh your mind and promote a healthier relationship with technology.

Now, it’s your turn – which of these tasks resonates most with you? What other productive activities do you swear by before the New Year?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s inspire each other.

Here’s to a restful holiday and a new year filled with growth, joy, and endless possibilities.