Essential Year-End Practices for Leaders

Higher Ed Leadership Series

Congratulations! We’ve made it through another year of learning and growing as leaders. Or maybe this was your first year in a leadership role. Either way, take some time to recognize and celebrate how far you’ve come.

While you’re at it, you might realize… you’re exhausted. Which is totally normal – being a leader can be exhausting. Here at Lead By Design Lab, our goal is to help you thrive both personally and professionally. And you can’t do either if you’re feeling burned out.

My goal is for you to finish out the year strong and enter 2023 feeling refreshed and ready to take on the new year! So today, I want to share a few self-care items that you can take into these last few days of the year.

1) Clean your office space

Whether you work from home or the office, take some time to refresh your workspace. Clear out those papers that are cluttering your desk. Maybe move some furniture around or get some new decor to liven up the room.

Create a space that you can be excited to return to in the new year.

2) Make a 2023 vision board

Making a vision board can be a great way to keep your goals top of mind as you head into the new year. Find some magazines or print out photos that represent what you’d like your life to look like this time next year. Be sure to include both personal and professional goals.

(Bonus points if you keep your vision board in your office!)

3) Take some time to celebrate

It’s easy to get wrapped up in the chaos of the holidays. Be sure to take some time to celebrate all that you have accomplished this year. Whether it’s some quiet self-reflection or a toast with your spouse or your friends – don’t forget to recognize all that you have done in 2022.

4) Book a spa day

Check in with yourself – what is it that your body needs? A massage? A facial? A fresh haircut? Do something that will help you feel like YOU again.

5) Prioritize your relationships

This might be the MOST important tip I can give you. Don’t forget to soak in this time with your loved ones. Watch a movie with your kiddos. Schedule a date night with your spouse. Grab lunch with a friend. Use this time to reconnect with those you love.

And with that, it’s a wrap on 2022! It’s also a wrap on our Higher Ed Leadership Series here on the blog. But don’t worry – if you’re looking for more content to help you in your journey as a Department Chair, VP, Dean, or other academic leader, we won’t be going anywhere:

I’ll see you in 2023!

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