Between lockdowns, restrictions and a lot of change, 2022 has presented unique challenges and opportunities. With this year coming to a close, now is the perfect time to reflect, recharge and reset so you’re ready for 2023. Here are eight things you can do to finish the year on a positive note.
Reflect
1. List your achievements
Before the end of the year, take time to reflect on what you’ve achieved in 2022 – big or small. By recognising your achievements, you activate the reward circuitry in your brain that releases the neurotransmitter dopamine, triggering your internal drive to repeat good habits.1 Grab a notebook and pen, reflect on this year’s wins and give yourself credit for your efforts this year.
2. Start a gratitude journal
The benefits of gratitude have been scientifically proven. One study found that reflecting daily on the things you are grateful for can result in positive reframing, which strengthens your sense of coherence – your coping capacity of dealing with daily life stressors.2 Each day, practice mindfulness by writing three things you’re thankful for and see the benefits come to fruition.
3. Send a ‘thank you’ letter
Research has found that saying ‘thank you’ to someone can boost bonding and provide greater stress relief.3 This can have a flow on effect that positively influences your overall mood and productivity. End the year on a positive note by writing a ‘thank you’ letter, email or reaching out to a colleague to let them know they helped you in some way this year. Top it off with a small gift to show your gratitude. Check out our gift guide for some great gift ideas.
Recharge
4. Log off
Power off your laptop and turn off notifications so you can recharge over the holidays. Taking a proper digital break can help prevent burnout and ensure you come back feeling refreshed in the new year. You deserve it!
5. Reconnect with family and friends
Now is as good a time as any to start making plans for social outings and spending quality time with family and friends. Reach out to friends and family and arrange a time to get together, whether it’s for a delicious meal or a fun outdoor adventure. Finish the year on a positive note with the people you care about.
6. Do something you enjoy
The holidays are a great opportunity to devote time to doing something that brings joy. From arts and crafts to outdoor sports, taking time to do something you enjoy can reduce stress levels, lift your mood and boost your happiness.
Reset
7. Set your goals for 2023
When you’re ready, it’s a great idea to start thinking about your goals and aspirations for 2023. Be specific about what you want to achieve and write them down on sticky notes. Stick them on your desk, bathroom mirror, fridge, or any other place you frequently visit to serve as reminders for what you can look forward to in the coming year.
8. Get organised for 2023
Using a diary can be an effective way to stay organised and get your tasks in order. If you don’t already have one, use a week-to-view diary to start mapping things out. It’s also a great idea to tidy up your workspace and ensure your digital files are in order before the holidays begin so you’re ready to take on 2023.
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References:
1Beris, R., 2016, ‘Science Explains How Writing Down Tiny Achievements Every Day Changes Our Brains’, <https://www.lifehack.org/398112/science-explains-how-writing-down-tiny-achievements-every-day-changes-our-brains>
2Miller, K.D., 2021, ‘14 Health Benefits of Practicing Gratitude According to Science’, <https://positivepsychology.com/benefits-of-gratitude/>
3Lindberg, E., 2019, ‘Practicing gratitude can have profound health benefits, USC experts say’, <https://news.usc.edu/163123/gratitude-health-research-thanksgiving-usc-experts/>
