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The annual review: a 30-minute process that makes next year better

Most people skip the annual review because it sounds effortful. Here is a 30-minute version that produces real insight.

The review questions that matter

Not 'what were my goals last year?' (demoralising if unmet) but: what was the most significant thing that happened? What decision am I most proud of? What would I do differently? What energy am I taking into next year and what am I leaving behind? These questions produce insight regardless of goal-achievement. Use our free year in review sheet to structure the reflection.

The life wheel assessment

Rate satisfaction (1–10) in: health, relationships, work/career, finances, personal growth, fun/recreation, home environment, and purpose/meaning. Identify the two lowest-scoring areas — these are where attention is most needed, not necessarily where you are failing. A score of 4 in finances combined with a score of 9 in health shows where next year's effort should go.

From review to resolution

The best New Year resolutions emerge from review rather than aspiration. If the review shows you were consistently too busy for the things that matter most, the resolution is not 'be less busy' but 'protect Sunday mornings for family' — specific, behavioural and triggered. Use our free resolutions planner to translate review insights into specific, triggered goals.

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Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to do an annual review?
The last week of December or the first week of January. Some people prefer their birthday — the personal new year. The important thing is doing it before setting goals for the coming year, not at the same time.
Should I share my annual review with anyone?
A trusted partner or friend who will ask good questions rather than give easy validation can significantly deepen the review. The act of explaining your year to someone else reveals assumptions and patterns you would not otherwise notice. Accountability for the goals that follow also improves follow-through.