By Tina Zawila
December is a whirlwind for most business owners and professionals. We’re racing to finish projects, close out the year, meet deadlines, and tie up loose ends before the break. It’s no surprise that at this time of year—amidst the busyness—our minds also drift toward what we want to change in the year ahead. We promise ourselves that next year will be different… but unless we take time to plan, next year often ends up looking very much like this one.
So what will you do differently?
One simple but powerful place to start is calendar management. Too many leaders allow their schedule to be filled by others. Block out time for strategic thinking, client development, deep work, and rest—before the year begins. If it’s not in your diary, it won’t happen.
Another area ripe for improvement is how you use tools and technology. AI can now handle many of the “Dull and Dirty” tasks—the repetitive, time-consuming, or messy administrative work that eats into your productivity. Whether it’s drafting emails, summarising documents, generating ideas, or managing routine workflows, delegating these tasks to technology frees you to focus on higher-value work and better client outcomes.
Or perhaps your goal is to work fewer hours—but make those hours count. Improving your systems, tightening processes, and learning to prioritise effectively can transform the way you operate. Productivity is not about doing more; it’s about doing what matters.
The Christmas break is the perfect opportunity not only to enjoy some well-earned rest and time with family, but also to reflect on the year that was. Consider what worked, what didn’t, and what habits or tools will help you create the year you really want.
A little planning now can set you up for a more productive, more intentional, and more satisfying 2026.
If you need someone to help you identify and focus on your goals, and/or to provide accountability and support along the way, call our professional team at UHY Haines Norton CQ on 4972 1300 to set yourself up for success.
