As November settles in, I’m reminded why this is my favorite stretch of the year for personal and professional reflection. Whether you’re winding down after a busy travel season or just soaking in the cool, quiet mornings here at home, the approaching holidays invite us all to pause and take stock—not just of where we’ve been, but of who we’ve walked alongside on the journey.
Gratitude that Drives Results
Over the years, I’ve found that the most effective leaders don’t just carve out time for strategy—they carve out space for gratitude. So before we get swept up in year-end deadlines, I want to thank you for your thoughtful responses, shared stories, and all the new inquiries (and coaching conversations!) sparked by recent newsletters.
Your engagement truly shapes our community and reminds me that this work matters.
This is a perfect month to show appreciation:
- Recognize those team members who consistently show up, even if the spotlight rarely finds them.
- Pick up the phone for a brief “thank you” call to a client, vendor, partner, or peer.
- Share a story of teamwork or resilience in your next meeting—it will ripple farther than you expect.
Reflection for a Strong Finish
With just weeks left in the year, November is the leader’s invitation to reflect and reset. The best organizations I know revisit three simple questions right now:
- What are we proudest of in 2025?
- Where did we overcome unexpected challenges?
- What single win do we want to claim by December 31?
Gather your team for a candid roundtable, and listen more than you speak. These moments build trust—and spark the energy for the final push.
Strategic Momentum: Small Sprints, Big Impact
Now is the time for a “strategy sprint.” Choose one or two priorities that, if tackled well, will make your year-end truly meaningful. Progress beats perfection, especially when the calendar is full. Encourage your team to break big goals into small steps—celebrate every one of them.
If you’re seeking inspiration for habit shifts and sustainable change, I recommend Atomic Habits by James Clear. His practical approach to stacking tiny improvements has helped countless leaders transform not just their results, but their culture.
30 Days of Thanks
Now is the time for a “strategy sprint.” Choose one or two priorities that, if tackled well, will make your year-end truly meaningful. Progress beats perfection, especially when the calendar is full. Encourage your team to break big goals into small steps—celebrate every one of them.
Looking Ahead
As always, if you want support sharpening your year-end strategy, tackling a team challenge, or even exploring coaching as your next chapter, I’m here—just an email or call away.
Wishing you and yours a season of gratitude, momentum, and meaning.
Your Professional Business Coach
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