"I don’t really have an end to my year.” Those words from a client hit me hard this week—and the truth of them is undeniable. As the year winds down, there’s a lot of talk about resetting, refocusing, and taking a breather from the chaos of the past twelve months. But let’s face it: if you’re an entrepreneur, there’s no real pause button.
No neat ending. No clean slate. Maybe a couple of days off over Christmas—if you’re lucky—before it’s back to the grind. Sound familiar?
2024 has been a relentless hustle, both professionally and personally. And honestly, how many more times can we toast to "next year being better" without rolling our eyes?
Covid set us up. It tricked us into this endless cycle of stay on top of everything, or else. Now, we’re grinding harder, not smarter—chasing that elusive north star while losing sight of where we’re even headed.
Tabs left open, letting chaos dictate the pace, and feeling stuck on the hamster wheel. It’s no wonder my client feels like her year never really ends—because for many of us, it doesn’t.
It’s time to take a hard look at how we’re working and why this endless busy-ness isn’t sustainable. Because just surviving another year isn’t the win we’re after.
I completely understand why my client said there’s no end to her year. What she was really saying is this: when you work for yourself, the wheel never stops turning. Life is full-on, and 2024 hasn’t been a walk in the park for anyone. So yes, take a moment to celebrate that you’ve made it through and given it your all. And if you’ve had a stellar year, let me say it—congratulations. You’ve earned every bit of it.
But here’s the thing: slowing down isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. Clarity and focus come from pausing, reassessing, and showing up as the best version of yourself—not just in business, but in life. Success requires a steady hand, sharp focus, and the energy to execute great work.
However, it’s a hard no to simply repeating the same patterns and mistakes from this year. The next few weeks aren’t just about winding down—they’re an opportunity. A chance to zero in on what truly drives results, to align with your purpose, and to ensure every move you make moves the needle.
Life operates in cycles and seasons. And if what you’re doing right now isn’t working, it’s time to break the cycle. The same goes for your business. Keep grinding in the same way, and by March, burnout is a sure bet—not just physically, but creatively, strategically, and mentally.
So, here’s the shift:
Have a plan. Stay crystal clear on what success looks like for you and your business. Ask yourself—what’s the ultimate goal in what I’m doing? Then commit. Full focus, full intention. You’ll work smarter, not harder, and the results will speak for themselves.
I know, easy words. But let’s be real—it’s not easy to execute alone. That’s where I come in. If you’re a business owner or entrepreneur looking for clarity, strategy, and someone who truly gets it, let’s talk. I’ve been there, done that, and I know how to help you navigate what’s next.
Together, we can unpack your challenges, anchor your business to its true purpose, and carve out a path that makes sense for you. Let’s build something intentional, so this time next year, you’re not just surviving—you’re celebrating a year that truly counts.
Ngā manaakitanga o te wā me te aroha nui,
Kim Hill
