How to Make the Most Out of the Fourth Quarter of the Year
Here we are again—the final stretch of the year. It’s crazy how time flies. It feels like just yesterday we were making New Year’s resolutions and getting pumped for the year ahead, and now we’re staring down the last quarter.
I used to dread this time of year. The holidays, the deadlines, the realization that some of the goals I set for myself back in January… well, let’s say they haven’t all panned out. But over the years, I’ve learned something crucial: the fourth quarter isn’t just about scrambling to finish. It’s actually one of the most valuable times to reflect, refocus, and finish strong.
So, I’m going to share a few strategies that have helped me maximize these last few months—and hopefully, they’ll help you too.
1. Revisit Your Goals & Re-Prioritize
I remember a time a few years ago when I realized, halfway through October, that I hadn’t come close to hitting one of my big goals for the year—launching a new project. I was stressed. But instead of trying to cram it all in before December 31, I paused and took a different approach.
I asked myself, What really matters in these next few months? It’s okay to shift your focus if needed.
So here’s what I’d recommend: take a moment to revisit the goals you set at the start of the year. What’s gone well? What didn’t go according to plan? Be honest with yourself, but also give yourself some grace. Then, choose 1-3 key goals you can realistically focus on between now and the end of the year.
You don’t have to tackle everything. In fact, you shouldn’t. This is your chance to zero in on what will make the biggest impact.
2. Create a 90-Day Action Plan
Once you’ve chosen your key priorities, it’s time to break them down. This is where a 90-day action plan comes in handy. Instead of just saying, “I want to finish this project” or “I want to be healthier,” break those goals into smaller, more specific steps.
Let me give you an example from my own life. Last year, I had a goal to get back into regular fitness. I’d fallen off the wagon around mid-year and hadn’t made time for the gym. Instead of panicking and trying to hit the gym five days a week right off the bat, I started with two days a week in October. Then, I built up to three. By December, I was back in a routine.
Break your goal down into what you can accomplish each month. October can be about getting started, November about consistency, and December about wrapping things up. And don’t forget to schedule time for weekly check-ins with yourself. It’s an easy way to stay on track.
3. Focus on Habits, Not Just Results
I’ve learned that results aren’t everything—it’s about the process. Focusing on daily or weekly habits helps keep the momentum going. After all, the habits you build now can carry you well into the new year.
A few years ago, I decided I wanted to launch a new project by the end of the year, but I kept procrastinating. It wasn’t until I committed to working on it for just 30 minutes a day that I started seeing progress. Those small, daily habits ended up being more powerful than any big burst of effort I could have crammed in last minute.
So, whatever your goals are—whether it’s fitness, launching a side project, or even just spending more time with loved ones—focus on the habits that will support those goals. These habits will keep you grounded when things get busy.
4. Reflect & Celebrate Your Wins
As the year wraps up, don’t forget to look back and appreciate how far you’ve come. I know we can be our own toughest critics, but I’ve found that reflecting on the wins—big or small—can be incredibly energizing.
In fact, a few years ago, I started a habit in December where I sit down with a journal and write out everything I accomplished that year. It’s not just about checking off big goals, but also recognizing the little things: relationships I’ve built, challenges I’ve overcome, even new skills I’ve picked up.
And while reflecting, don’t forget to celebrate. You’ve made it through another year. That’s worth something.
5. Set the Stage for Next Year
The fourth quarter isn’t just about closing the year strong. It’s also about laying the groundwork for what’s next. I like to think of Q4 as the time when I’m not only finishing the race, but also scouting out the course for the next one.
What do you want to achieve in the next year? What did this year teach you about your goals, your habits, or even your limits? Now’s the time to start dreaming up what 2025 could look like.
And here’s a little secret: if you start laying that foundation now, January won’t feel so overwhelming. You’ll already have some momentum going.
To wrap up, Q4 isn’t just a mad dash to the finish line—it’s an opportunity to reflect, prioritize, and set yourself up for a strong finish and a great start to the new year. Take a deep breath, revisit those goals, and focus on what truly matters. The year’s not over yet, and there’s still plenty of time to make it count.
Have an amazing week,
M.T. Omoniyi
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