Start Small, End Big

As we step into the final stretch of the year, it’s time to reflect, recalibrate, and refocus. This is your opportunity to finish strong, but it starts with your mindset and daily habits. Let’s break it down into actionable steps.

1. What Are Your Standards?

Your standards are born from your values. They’re the internal compass that guides your decisions and actions. Think about the principles you live by — those that sound like:

• “Connections first.” 

• “Honesty always.”

• “Effort over perfection.”

Take a moment to define your standards for this quarter. Write them down. These aren’t just ideals; they’re commitments you make to yourself.

2. What Are Your Non-Negotiables?

Non-negotiables are the habits or boundaries you refuse to abandon, even when life gets chaotic. Maybe it’s:

• A morning workout, no matter how short.

• Dinner with the family, phones off.

• Journaling or reflecting for 5 minutes daily.

Now, ask yourself: what will my colleagues, family and friends hear me saying or see me doing to ensure I stay connected to my non-negotiables even when the pressure is high?

3. Emotional Stress Training

Stress is inevitable, and – if you’ve known me long enough and you know the nuances –  it’s not a bad thing. It's been demonised. But how you respond to it becomes the pivotal factor. 

Did you know that intense physical exercise can improve your emotional resilience? A single session of high-intensity training can help regulate your emotional response to stress for up to 24 hours. If high-intensity isn’t your style, focus on down-regulation techniques like yoga or deep breathing to calm your nervous system and reset after a stressful day. 

Both approaches train your body and mind to handle pressure more effectively.

4. Take Off Your “Work Hat” Each Afternoon

Transitioning out of “work mode” is crucial for mental clarity and emotional balance. Create a ritual that signals the end of your workday:

• A 5-minute walk outside.

• Write down tomorrow’s priorities so you can mentally “clock out.”

• Gratitude journals and contribution journals: how was I useful to other people? 

• Changing into comfortable clothes, take a shower or engaging in an activity that helps you unwind.

This simple practice helps you show up fully in other areas of life — whether that’s family time, hobbies, or rest.

5. Set a Process or Learning Goal

Instead of focusing solely on outcomes (e.g., hitting a specific number), set a process goal for this quarter:

• “When I dedicate to 10 minutes daily to deep work, it is because I have ….. been clear on my ‘yes’ and ‘no’”

• “The skill that will help me get through this period with 10% energy in reserve at the end of each week is ……”

Process goals shift the focus from results to effort, keeping you motivated and adaptable even when challenges arise.

Setting yourself up for success

The last quarter isn’t just about finishing tasks—it’s about finishing well. By aligning with your values, staying consistent with non-negotiables, managing stress effectively, and setting meaningful goals, you’ll set yourself up for success—not just this year but beyond.

Let’s make these next few months count!

What’s one standard or non-negotiable you’ll commit to today?