Let me be honest with you: I feel like I just want to relax. The year has been long, and my body and mind are screaming for a break. But here’s the thing—I can’t afford to. Not yet. I haven’t met many of my goals, and truth be told, some of them aren’t even fully defined yet. There’s still work to do.
Besides, there are people watching. Some are rooting for me to succeed, others waiting for me to fail. And while I don’t live my life for an audience, I can’t deny that there are lives attached to my success. What I do—or don’t do—matters, not just for me but for everyone I’m meant to impact. That’s why I’ve made up my mind: this is not the time to slow down.
The Year-End Mental Slowdown
The end of the year always seems to invite a collective sigh of relief. People start to coast, the pace of work slows, and “holiday mode” kicks in. The temptation to ease up is strong—I feel it too. But here’s the danger: when you stop pushing forward, you risk losing the momentum you’ve spent the entire year building.
Your mind might tell you:
- “You deserve a break.”
- “There’s always next year.”
- “What’s the harm in taking it easy for a few weeks?”
The harm is in starting the new year at a standstill instead of already in motion. January doesn’t come with a magic reset button; you carry your habits, progress, and mindset from one year to the next. And if you’re not moving now, you’ll spend the first part of the new year trying to regain your stride.
Cut the Brakes and Keep Moving
Think about it like this: if you’re running a race and see the finish line ahead, do you slow down? Of course not! You dig deep, find that extra bit of energy, and sprint to the end. The same principle applies here.
Here’s why it matters:
- Momentum is everything. Ending the year strong ensures you’re not starting from zero when January rolls around.
- Your future self will thank you. The work you do now will make the beginning of the next year smoother, more productive, and less stressful.
- It’s about more than just you. There are people depending on you—your family, your team, your audience. Your success creates ripples that impact everyone around you.
Practical Ways to Finish Strong
1. Revisit and Refine Your Goals
Let’s face it: some of those big goals you set at the beginning of the year might still be sitting untouched. That’s okay. Take a moment to revisit them. Which ones can you realistically make progress on before the year ends? Which ones need refining so you can pursue them with clarity in the new year?
2. Focus on Small Wins
Big goals can feel overwhelming, especially when the clock is ticking. Break them down into smaller, actionable steps you can tackle now. Small wins build momentum.
3. Plan for January Now
Don’t wait for the ball to drop to figure out what’s next. Start laying the groundwork for the new year now so you’re ready to hit the ground running.
4. Stay Accountable
Whether it’s a friend, mentor, or accountability group, surround yourself with people who will keep you on track and motivated.
5. Cut the Excuses
The truth is, you can either have excuses or results—but not both. Decide right now that slowing down is not an option.
The Bigger Picture: Lives Are Attached to Your Success
Here’s what keeps me going when I feel like throwing in the towel: I know that my success isn’t just about me. There are people watching, waiting, and depending on me to show up. Whether it’s family, friends, or someone I don’t even know yet who needs the inspiration my journey can provide, my effort matters.
And let’s not forget the haters—the ones silently hoping I’ll fall short. They’re not my focus, but let’s just say giving them the satisfaction of seeing me quit is not on my agenda.
Step Into the New Year With Confidence
The end of the year is not the time to slow down. It’s the time to press harder, dig deeper, and set yourself up for success. If you’re feeling tired, remember this: every seed grows in the dark. The hard work you’re doing now, even when it feels unseen, is preparing you to break through the surface and blossom in the light.
So cut the brakes. Finish strong. Give it everything you’ve got. When the new year comes, you’ll thank yourself for pushing through—and so will everyone whose life you’re destined to impact.
God’s got you, and so do your dreams. Go all in.
Joy Wasted with KB Dickey 
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