3 things you can do today for a better end of year
Act quickly - the window on these actions closes fast
Welcome to the start of Q4! The fastest flying quarter we have.
Why does it escape us so quickly? Oh, just a few things will be on our minds: ending the year strong, planning for 2027, protecting time with loved ones, navigating kids' school calendars and holiday gatherings, and (if you're in snow country) maybe even budgeting hours for shoveling.
It's a lot to hold at once.
Good news: there are three things you can do this week to stay grounded before the quarter sweeps you up.
1. Ask: What do I most want to accomplish?
Make two short lists — "What Matters Most" (limit to 3) and "What Matters Least" — focused only on what truly requires you specifically.
For your "Matters Most" list, open your calendar right now and block time for progress on each item before the quarter books over it.
For your "Matters Least" list, ask: can I step back from this, delegate it, or set a boundary around my time here?
2. Ask: Where do I need a thinking partner?
This is the time of year strategic thinking gets pushed aside — a thinking partner protects the reflective space you need to turn this year's lessons into next year's systems.
A thinking partner also keeps you accountable to your own time, not just everyone else's deadlines.
Colleagues, peers, and mentors can all serve this role — and this is also a great moment to talk with me about how Cardinal Leadership Lab can support your team's strong finish to 2026 and smart start to 2027.
3. Ask: Do I have time to transition in and out of the season's busy moments?
Add a few calendar blocks now to create wiggle room around family gatherings and holiday events.
A little buffer means you're actually present with people you love — not mentally drafting Monday's to-do list while you're supposed to be celebrating.
Take me up on not doing it alone - let's connect.
When we connect, we'll align on what matters most for you and your team, then co-create exactly what's needed to carry that into a strong finish — and a clear start to 2027. Let's find time to connect.
To all that's ahead,
Claire
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