How to Finish the Year Strong, Even If It’s Been Tough
Hey there, beautiful! Can you believe we’re at the end of another year? It feels like January was just yesterday, yet here we are, wrapping up 2024. Whether this year flew by with accomplishments or dragged along with challenges, I’m so glad you’re here. Today, we’re talking about closing out the year with power, no matter what it’s thrown your way.
Let’s be real—this year might not have gone exactly how you planned, and that’s okay. Life has a way of being unpredictable, but you’re still standing, and that’s something to celebrate. If you’ve been feeling like you’re limping across the finish line instead of sprinting, don’t worry, sis. There’s still time to end 2024 strong, on your terms. Let’s talk about how to reclaim your energy, focus on what went right, and set the tone for an incredible 2025.
Why It’s Never Too Late to Finish Strong
First, let me remind you of something important: every day is a fresh chance to start again. It doesn’t matter if the past 11 months were a mess or a masterpiece—you still have the opportunity to end this year with intention and grace.
Finishing strong isn’t about checking every box on your to-do list or suddenly achieving all your goals in December. It’s about showing up for yourself, recognizing how far you’ve come, and finding joy in the little victories. Think of this month as your time to reflect, realign, and reignite your spark. The way you end this year will set the tone for how you start the next.
Acknowledge Your Wins—Big or Small
Let’s talk about celebrating your victories, no matter how tiny they may seem. Maybe you didn’t hit every goal, but you showed up. Maybe you didn’t run a marathon, but you took more walks than last year. Those moments count, sis! Take a second to look back on this year and ask yourself, “What went well?”
Tip: Keep a “What I’m Proud Of” List
Grab your journal (you know I always encourage journaling!) and write down at least five things you’re proud of from this year. It could be as small as trying a new recipe or as big as landing a promotion. Writing it out helps you see that even in tough seasons, there are moments of growth and joy worth celebrating.
Let Go of What Didn’t Work
Now, let’s get real. We’ve all made plans that didn’t pan out, and that’s perfectly fine. It’s time to let go of any guilt, frustration, or “what-ifs” you’re holding onto. Holding onto disappointment won’t change the past, but it can weigh you down in the present. Letting go creates space for new opportunities and fresh energy.
Tip: Write a “Goodbye Letter” to the Year
Write a letter to 2024, saying goodbye to everything that didn’t serve you—whether it’s self-doubt, toxic relationships, or unhelpful habits. Thank the year for its lessons (even the hard ones) and let it go with grace. This simple act can be incredibly freeing and help you move forward with clarity.
Realign Your Focus for December
Okay, so the year didn’t go exactly how you envisioned—now what? Use this month to realign with what truly matters to you. Instead of stressing over what you didn’t do, focus on what you can do right now to feel more fulfilled and prepared for the year ahead.
Tip: Set a “December-Only” Goal
Pick one thing to focus on this month. It could be spending more quality time with loved ones, starting a gratitude journal, or simply carving out 10 minutes each day for self-care. Keep it small and doable so you can actually stick with it.
Practice Gratitude to Shift Your Mindset
Gratitude has this incredible way of transforming how we see the world. When we focus on what we’re thankful for, even in the middle of challenges, it’s like flipping a switch in our minds. Suddenly, life doesn’t feel so overwhelming.
Tip: Start a Gratitude Jar
Every day in December, write down one thing you’re grateful for and drop it in a jar. At the end of the month, read through them and reflect on the good things that happened. It’s a powerful reminder of how much light there is in your life, even on cloudy days.
End the Year With Intention
The most powerful way to finish the year strong is to approach it with intention. Ask yourself: How do I want to feel on December 31st? What do I want to take with me into 2025, and what am I leaving behind? This isn’t about creating a long list of resolutions—it’s about tuning into what you need to feel whole, happy, and ready for a fresh start.
Tip: Create a “Vision Snapshot”
Instead of waiting until January, start imagining your ideal 2025 now. Write down how you want to feel, what you want to focus on, and the kind of energy you want to bring into the new year. Let this vision guide your choices and actions in these final weeks of 2024.
Let’s Close Out This Chapter Together
Finishing the year strong doesn’t mean having it all figured out—it means choosing to show up, reflect, and move forward with intention. You’ve come so far, and you’re exactly where you need to be right now. Celebrate your wins, let go of what didn’t serve you, and step into the new year with your head high and your heart full.
I’m so proud of you for sticking with me on this journey, and I can’t wait to see what you’ll accomplish in 2025. If today’s post resonated with you, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more tips, encouragement, and love straight to your inbox.
“Always remember to embrace your journey and keep shining. You own your light, and no one can take that from you.” - D. Monique
