Year in review: How to reflect on your professional progress and plan for the new year

Between the end of the calendar year and the new beginning lies a moment that many underestimate: pause. Not just to take a deep breath, but to look back at what has been. What have you learned? What went well? What do you want to change?

An honest review helps you recognise your professional progress – even if it didn't feel that way at the time. And it shows you how you can approach the next year with awareness and motivation.

Take your time

Reflection requires peace and quiet. Set aside 30–60 minutes. No mobile phone, no scrolling. Just you, a notebook or document – and a few simple questions:

- What was my most important learning experience in 2025?

- What am I proud of professionally?

- What drained my energy – and why?

You don't have to answer everything. It's not about perfection, but about honesty.

See also the small steps

We often only look at major successes. But progress can also be seen in small things:

- Learning a new skill

- Negotiating your salary for the first time

- Seeking and implementing feedback

Be aware that growth rarely happens in big leaps – but in many small, courageous moments.

Write down what you no longer want

Looking back is not just about reviewing the past – it's also about clarification. What do you want to do less of next year?

Perhaps:

- being constantly available

- taking on tasks that drain you

- comparing yourself to others

The clearer you can say no, the stronger your yes will be.

Don't set goals, set a direction

‘Earn more,’ ‘network better,’ ‘find an internship’ – these are good resolutions. But goals alone create pressure.

Instead, consider: In which direction do you want to develop? What do you want to strengthen? What do you want to learn? What should change?

This creates space for motivation – instead of stress.

Be specific

Thoughts only become steps when you make them tangible. Write down 2–3 things you want to implement in the first quarter.

For example:

✅ Update your LinkedIn profile

✅ Register for a trade fair

✅ Attend a job application training course

Starting small is not a step backwards. It is the beginning.

You don't have to plan everything, but you should start consciously.

A review of the year is not a performance review. It is a moment when you recognise what you have achieved – and what is really important to you. Use this look back to see more clearly what lies ahead.

Not perfectly. But honestly, calmly, consciously.