As the sun sets on yet another transformative year, we find ourselves again at a crossroads of reflection and anticipation. The past year has undoubtedly brought a number of experiences to us all - some challenging, some triumphant, many adventurous! - which shape our individual stories. 

2023 will have inevitably taught us many valuable lessons. It’s not just about the challenges we’ve faced or the things we’ve achieved, it’s also about the self-discovery that comes as we navigate all of the twists and turns. 

And the upcoming year isn’t simply a blank canvas. It’s an opportunity to set intentions, define goals, and set an agenda including lots of adventure for the exciting chapters ahead. 

So today we invite you to pause, take a breath, and join us in an exploration of where we’ve been and where we aspire to go. In this article we’re going to delve into, and invite you to join us in:

• Reflecting on 2023

• Looking Ahead to 2024’s Goals

• Channelling adventure into next year

• Choosing the best 2024 planner to keep you accountable to your goals

Why End-Of-Year Reflections Are A Great Idea

We think you’ll agree that time now seems to pass by faster than ever. That’s why it’s so important to take time to reflect on all that’s happened in the months prior.

We know how easy it is to only remember the good things. When in fact, it’s the not-so-good things that really build our character and strength, and shape the next parts of our journey. We can look at these not-so-good moments and ask ourselves what we’ve learned and what we might do differently next time. 

There is no right or wrong way to do this end-of-year reflection, you just have to find a way that works for you. From free journaling to answering some journal prompts, or even talking with friends or family and speaking your reflections out loud. 

But if something’s been holding you back from doing this in previous years, you’re not alone. Not only does it take time, which we don’t always feel we have, it can also be quite overwhelming to recount the sheer volume of experiences throughout the year. There’s a level of confrontation that comes with looking back and acknowledging that some things might not have gone to plan. 

How To Head Into 2024 

It’s great to have goals for the upcoming year. Whether it’s for your career, your relationship or your wellbeing & fitness, setting actionable and achievable goals is key. 

What are your 2024 priorities?

What’s your long term vision for various aspects of your life? Ask yourself this, and then set specific goals which are in alignment. Dream big and set big goals. Then break them down into smaller, more manageable components. Big goals can seem daunting and unattainable, but when broken down into stages and factored in amongst your existing time commitments, they’re well within reach. Some of your priorities may not be specific things to achieve, they may be habits or behaviours you wish to embody or enhance. What are they, and what can you do to get a little bit closer every day, week and month?

What mindset will you require in 2024?

This is a big one. Mindset is key when it comes to your outlook on the year and how you continue on the path to your goals. Everyone will tell you to ‘be positive’, but it’s not always that easy, is it? When looking on the bright side isn’t always an option, there are things you can do to help your mindset:

• Firstly, give yourself the space to really feel your emotions. Forcing yourself to be positive can backfire overtime as it can build up negative emotions. 

• Next, make a list of the things you can control. Often when we’re in a negative headspace it can be hard to break things down. But start with the things you can manage, even if right now that’s just your attitude and effort.

• Open up to those you love and trust. Reaching out for support or even a good giggle together can act as great motivation to keep going and uplift your mindset and mood.

• Know that sometimes, our toughest times can be our greatest lessons. It’s cliché, but true. Life happens for us, not to us. This angle can change your perspective towards any challenge you’re facing, and this is when you look at what you can control to keep moving forwards..

If we do the above, we can cultivate a forward-thinking and optimistic mindset. In doing so, you’ll not only set ambitious goals, you’ll also empower yourself to overcome any obstacles. Know that you’ll embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and growth, and remember it’s all about progress over perfection. Journaling is a fundamental tool to maintain this mindset, so grab a pen and paper and write out how you’re feeling. It’ll help you to reflect and remind yourself of your goals and your why. 

Who do I need on my energy bus in 2024?

Energy is infectious, so it’s important to carefully curate the people on your energy bus. These are the people who significantly influence your life and wellbeing. Seek out positive energy and those who share your vision and values as this will naturally create an environment of support and growth. If someone drains your energy or hinders your progress, they don’t deserve a seat on your bus. It’s that simple. This book is a great read which goes into this philosophy in more detail. 

Follow The 80/20 rule

You may have heard of this, but what does it actually mean? The principle is that 20% of your activities will account for 80% of your results. So in the context of goal setting it means that if you have a list of ten goals, two of those will be worth more than the other eight combined. So once you’ve got your goals listed, take a look and identify which ones will have the biggest impact and put your energy into those.

Channeling Adventure in 2024

In case you missed it, adventure is a fundamental part of our existence here at MLA. It ignites curiosity, promotes personal growth, and builds resilience. It challenges comfort zones, and gives us a life full of exploration and discovery.

We’re all familiar with the boost of happiness that comes from planning a holiday. There’s even research that proves it. Yet planning adventures into our lives is so much more than booking vacations. It’s a conscious decision to inject excitement and growth into our lives. The importance of adventures lies in its ability to break the monotony of city life and routine, and push us beyond our self-imposed limits.

Here’s some ways to add adventure into the upcoming year:

Step Out Of Your Comfort Zone

We know it’s not as easy as simply doing something you’ve never done. But you can definitely take small steps to getting there. Firstly, identify your fears so you recognise what’s holding you back. Then set small goals which are manageable yet challenging, and acknowledge any and all progress! Remember to embrace failure along the way - it’s a great learning experience.

Join The Outdoor Activity Gang

Imagine you could leave behind the gym for a day and try something new which still provides all the benefits of the gym. Whether in the city or slightly further afield, the great outdoors is exactly this. It’s a playground for adventure and exploration. Great things happen when we leave behind our regular gym for a day and navigate something new that’s good for our body and mind. We challenge you this new year to shake up your usual routine and add in a new outdoor activity, perhaps even doing it solo to meet your energy bus crew!

Purchase a Planner & Keep Track Of Your Goals

Another year, another influx of journals and planners to choose from. Below are our recommendations to make the most out of your planning.

Full Focus Planner

The Full Focus Planner uses a science-based goal-achievement system to make it possible for virtually everyone to win at work and succeed at life. This planner is designed so that you can set (and smash!) your annual and quarterly goals, as well as three goals each day and week. It’s the brainchild of productivity expert Michael Hyatt, who has made it his life’s work to help people optimise both productivity and focus. The planner demonstrates a systematic approach to planning and executing tasks, and users also report that using it eliminates busywork and helps them to reclaim up to 20 hours per week!

Intelligent Change’s Productivity Planner

Intelligent Change creates a range of thoughtfully designed products to help you achieve more with less. The Productivity Planner is your personal coach which helps you to manage your time and achieve your goals, as well as reflect on your growth. With daily task planners and weekly plans and reviews, it’s crafted to supercharge your focus and help you stay on track.

Papier’s Wellness Journal

This Wellness Journal is a beautifully designed tool to prioritise your wellbeing. Featuring customisable covers, it provides a structured framework for tracking habits, setting goals and fostering mindfulness. With dedicated sections for gratitude and self-reflection, it encourages a holistic approach to health and growth whilst cultivating productivity and balance.

Mål Paper & The Food Medic’s The Habit Journal

This journal features a crystal clear layout to help you track daily habits as well as plan your days, weeks and months. Each day has space for both work and personal tasks, helping you stay on top of your to-do list. The monthly tracker guides you to list the 3 main habits you want to improve on, as well as your focus areas across work, personal life, health and relationships.

The Positive Planner

Positive by name, positive by nature! With journal and planner features rolled into one, this daily organiser offers a 12-week journey of mindfulness and purpose. It combines daily intentions, reflections and mood check-ins with practical tools such as meal planners,  shopping lists and monthly goals.

So as we welcome in a new year, let’s embrace the potential that lies ahead. Remember the power of positivity, prioritising goals, and surrounding ourselves with the right energy. Let 2024 be a year of exploration that pushes you out of your comfort zone and into new, unknown waters that serve to enhance your growth, and your physical and emotional wellbeing.