Ready for a Career Reset? Here’s How to Kickstart 2026

For the past 5 years, January seems to be one of my busiest months.

Why?

Because something about a fresh calendar makes people want to hit reset and review their goals, set new ones, and dream big.

And honestly? I’m all for it.

But here’s the thing: you don’t need January to give yourself permission to change. You can decide mid-week, mid-year, or mid cup of tea or coffee that now is your time to do something different- whether that’s a bold career move or simply managing your days with more intention.

Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of speaking to professionals in law, healthcare, and beyond. One of my favorite exercises to share is called “What’s on Your Plate?” It’s simple but powerful because most of us are juggling way too much and often the wrong things.

Think about it:

• Meetings that don’t need you

• Drama from teams, clients, or customers

• Work that doesn’t move the mission forward

• Projects that all feel “urgent” and create stress

• Teams with no leadership

  
  

Sound familiar? If so, let’s flip the script for 2026.

here are 10 Steps you can take to Kickstart Your Career This Year.

Grab some pen/paper and let's get you started on creating a bit of clarity and momentum:

1. Take inventory. What’s on your plate right now—your calendar, tasks, commitments?

2. Ask yourself four questions:

   • Does it require me?

   • What value am I adding?

   • Is it a strength?

   • Do I even like it?

3. Identify your top 3 growth priorities for each quarter.

4. Write down one action that moves you toward each priority.

5. Fill in the blank: I want more of ______ in my work life.

6. Fill in the blank: I want less of ______ in my work life.

7. I’d like to learn more about ____________.

8. My top 3 work values are: ____________________.

9. My top 3 personal values are: __________________.

10. Rate yourself:

    • On a scale of 1–10, I use my strengths most of the time.

    • On a scale of 1–10, I feel heard and valued in my current job.

So… What’s Next?

Here are two truths I’ve seen play out for over 15 years:

• Blind loyalty to an organization is dead.

• Life is chalked full of amazing choices; yet too many people let fear hold them hostage.

  
  

You might not agree, but these truths I've seen shape careers every day.

So as you step into 2026, you have two options:

• Stay where you are.

• Decide you want more & start mapping out your next move.

  
  

Change takes courage, whether it’s a small tweak or a big leap.

I’ll leave you with this question:

What’s the consequence of doing absolutely nothing?

Only you can answer that.

You have talents the world needs. When you discover them and put them to their next use, amazing things happen.

If you'd like some perspective on what your 'next' could look like, you can schedule your FREE Career Strategy Session!

Here’s to an incredible 2026!