The last 90 days…
We are in the -ber months - Hello, October! And while the -ber months bring holidays, fun, and core memories, it can also bring a multitude of feelings like stress, chaos, resentment, and regret. It’s also the time that a lot of people slow down, step back, and forget or give up on their goals. But it can also be the perfect time to reset, renew, refocus, and set a strong foundation for, not just the last few months of the year, but a strong start to a new one. This is the time of year where you can take time to pause, breathe, reflect, plan and prepare. It’s also a time for a lot of coaches and entrepreneurs to set their “Last 90 Day” goals or “Finish the Year Strong.”
The Twelve Week Year is a business book about planning, goal setting, and review in quarters. Basically setting smaller goals and checking in to review how it’s going so you can change and pivot as needed. Through research the authors discovered that when business or people plan for a year long goal, then tend to wait until November to truly hustle and focus and catch up, but if you set quarterly goals and review as you go, you are more likely to not only make progress, but actually achieve the goals you set before you.
This time isn’t just for planning, goal setting, and maintaining momentum as others take their foot off the gas pedal, it’s a chance to slow down and reflect and refocus on what is truly important. Holidays gives us a chance for quality time with people we love and an opportunity to set healthy boundaries for ourselves. It’s a time to celebrate the big things and be grateful for the small ones. As the year winds down, it’s a time that can feel both full and overwhelming. The holiday season, year-end deadlines, and shorter days can leave many of us feeling drained. However, this period is also a perfect opportunity to pause, reflect, and prepare for the new year. By focusing on self-care and setting intentions, you can enter the next chapter feeling refreshed and ready.
Take some time to reflect on the past year. Think about what you’ve accomplished, the challenges you faced, and how you’ve grown. Acknowledging your wins, no matter how small, helps you appreciate your progress. Letting go of what no longer serves you—whether that’s habits, emotions, or patterns—can create space for new growth.
Instead of rushing into strict resolutions, consider setting meaningful intentions for the new year. Intentions are more focused on growth and development rather than rigid goals. Think about how you want to feel and what kind of person you want to become in the next year. Writing these intentions down can help guide your decisions as you move forward.
The holiday season can easily lead to burnout, so it’s important to prioritize rest. Make time for relaxation, say no to obligations that don’t serve you, and focus on activities that bring you peace. Ensure you’re getting quality sleep and scheduling downtime. Simple pleasures, like reading or spending time with loved ones, can help recharge your energy and prepare you for the new year.
As the colder months approach, it’s easy to fall into habits that make you feel sluggish. To counter this, nourish your body with healthy, nutrient-rich foods, stay hydrated, and make time for physical activity. Getting outside for fresh air, even on chilly days, can be invigorating. Don’t forget to also nourish your mind—engage in activities that stimulate your thoughts, such as reading or journaling. These practices help you stay grounded and energized.
Your environment can greatly impact how you feel, so use this time to declutter and organize your space. Whether it’s your home, workspace, or another area that feels chaotic, clearing physical clutter can help calm your mind and set the tone for a fresh start. Organizing now will also make it easier to step into the new year with focus and clarity.
As the year ends, it’s important to reconnect with what matters most. Spend time with loved ones and focus on gratitude for the things that bring you joy. If certain relationships or commitments feel draining, this is a good time to reflect on setting boundaries to protect your energy moving forward.
While planning for the year ahead is important, it’s equally crucial to remain flexible. Life is unpredictable, and rigid plans can lead to frustration when things don’t go as expected. Setting priorities and goals is helpful, but being open to adjustments will allow you to adapt more easily when challenges arise.
Investing in self-care is especially important during this time. Whether it’s a skincare routine, meditation, or creative hobbies, self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for maintaining balance. Use these last few months to establish routines that will support your well-being in the coming year.
Taking time to visualize the year ahead can also be a powerful tool. Imagine how you want to feel, what you want to achieve, and the flow of your life in the next year. Visualization can serve as a motivator and guide as you navigate the months to come.
Finally, don’t forget to celebrate yourself. Whether you’ve achieved major goals or small victories, taking time to acknowledge your efforts allows you to end the year on a positive note. Practicing gratitude for both the lessons learned and the joyful moments experienced can help carry a mindset of abundance into the new year.
By focusing on self-care, reflection, and intentional planning during these final months, you can set a strong foundation for the year ahead, entering it with clarity, energy, and a sense of renewal.