“The best way to predict the future is to build it.” – Dan Martell
As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going. Leadership isn’t just about setting goals; it’s about daily actions and planting the right seeds for long-term growth. This time of year is an excellent opportunity to start, regardless of where you’re at. Because let’s be honest: successful growth doesn’t start on January 1st. It starts months if not years before, when we’re intentional about preparing for what’s ahead. But if you haven’t begun yet, don’t worry. The best time to start is now.
Let’s talk about your to-do list. If you show me what’s on your list for the next 15-30 days, I can tell you how much growth you’re going to experience in 2025. Why am I so confident here? Because growth is a byproduct of consistent, intentional action – not just the goals you set. Your goals might determine where you want to go, but your daily habits are the engine that gets you there. What you choose to do today and tomorrow matters far more than the grand plans you make for the year ahead.
Here’s the reality I’ve come to see in SO many leaders: most New Year’s goals come with good intentions but are often disrupted by life’s unpredictability. What do I mean by that? I thought you’d never ask.
“I want to get in the gym 4-5x per week and get myself in the pursuit of a healthier me.” But then you lose an employee, work later than expected so you sleep in, and have to get to the office earlier, and your plans of getting healthier go out the window.
“I’m going to spend more time with my spouse & family.” But an unexpected client delay, a mishap with an employee, or workload takes over, leaving you stretched too thin to prioritize family dinners or date nights.
“I’m determined to save more money this year.” But an unexpected business or home expense hits, or loss of profits with business, derails your budget within the first few weeks, so you go right back to your bad spending habits.
“I’ll block out time for personal development and reading every day.” But back-to-back meetings, disruptions to my day to day, wasted time on unnecessary tasks, and pop-up emergencies eat up your schedule, leaving no room for personal growth.
These scenarios highlight a hard to digest truth: life happens. The key isn’t perfection; it’s persistence. What separates successful leaders is their ability to adjust and stay consistent with their actions despite the disruptions. The sad truth is that you might have a disruption in your plans by January 31st, so you throw your ambition and goals out the window by February 1 and say I’ll try it again next year.
“Successful people do consistently what other people do occasionally.” – Craig Groeschel
One of the most impactful traits I’ve noticed in highly successful leaders is this – they rarely obsess over tracking their goals. Yet they are still growing themselves, growing others, and doing world changing things. Instead, they are relentlessly consistent with their actions. They understand that hitting targets isn’t the end game – it’s the byproduct of showing up every single day. But that’s not all. These leaders also take time to recharge and reflect. They look back on their journey and find energy in understanding how far they’ve come.
Humbly said… this leads me to where I am right now – in our home away from
home state of Florida, spending the last two weeks of the year with my family.
This time is invaluable. Not just for me, but for those under my charge too.
It’s a moment to cast vision for the year ahead while reflecting on the notes and
thoughts I wrote in my journal this time last year. Looking back, it’s remarkable to see
how much progress has been made, not just in my business but also in my
personal growth. Journaling the journey isn’t just a habit for me; it’s a roadmap
that captures my journey and reminds me of the seeds planted months and years ago
So, as you step into this new year, ask yourself…
1. What seeds am I planting now that will bear fruit in the months ahead?
2. What consistent actions am I committed to daily, even when I get sidetracked?
3. What legacy am I building through the choices I make today?
4. How can I align my daily actions with my deepest values and purpose?
5. When I look back a year from now, what stories of growth and resilience do I want to tell?
Don’t play around with these questions. This is a crucial assignment. The answers to these questions will shape your growth in 2025 and beyond. Remember, success doesn’t come from just lofty goals alone. It comes from showing up, being consistent, and staying committed to the process.
My prayer for you is that you find clarity in your vision, strength in your daily actions, and joy in the journey ahead. May 2025 be a year of growth, purpose, and fulfillment for you and those you lead and influence! Wishing you the BEST and most prosperous year yet. Happy New Year to you and yours!
“You will never change your life until you change something you do daily. The secret of your success is found in your daily routine.”
– John Maxwell