Closing Out Strong: How to Tackle Your Goals in Quarter 4

As we enter the final stretch of the year, many of us begin reflecting on the goals we set

back in January. Whether you’re on track or feeling like you’ve fallen behind, there’s still time to make the most of Quarter 4 and finish the year on a high note. Here’s how you can close out the year strong and set yourself up for success in the months ahead.

1. Reevaluate Your Goals

Take a moment to reassess the goals you set earlier this year. Are they still aligned with where you want to be? Life and priorities can shift, and it’s okay to pivot. Narrow your focus to the goals that will have the biggest impact and that truly matter to you right now.

Coaching Tip: Break down each goal into smaller, actionable steps. This will make the path forward clearer and less overwhelming.

2. Prioritize Consistency Over Perfection

One of the biggest barriers to achieving goals is the belief that progress needs to be perfect. Instead of striving for perfection, focus on being consistent. Even small, steady actions will help you move closer to your goal. It’s about progress, not perfection.

Coaching Tip: Set a daily or weekly routine for the next three months that incorporates time dedicated to your goal. These small habits will add up over time.

3. Set Micro-Deadlines

With only a few months left in the year, time is limited, but this can actually work in your favor. Create a sense of urgency by setting micro-deadlines for yourself. Breaking the remainder of the year into smaller timeframes (e.g., two weeks or one month) allows you to focus on short-term progress and celebrate small wins along the way.

Coaching Tip: Write down these deadlines and hold yourself accountable. If possible, share them with an accountability partner or coach to keep you on track.

4. Embrace the 1% Rule

The 1% rule states that if you improve by just 1% every day, those small improvements will compound over time, leading to massive growth. Focus on making just 1% progress each day toward your goals, and by the end of the year, you’ll be surprised at how far you’ve come.

Coaching Tip: Ask yourself at the end of each day, "What did I do today to move 1% closer to my goal?" Consistent, small efforts will lead to big results.

5. Don’t Forget Self-Care

As you push to achieve your goals in the final quarter, it’s crucial to balance ambition with self-care. Burnout can derail your progress and leave you feeling drained. Schedule time to recharge, whether that’s through exercise, meditation, or simply unplugging for a while.

Coaching Tip: Set boundaries around your work time and relaxation time. This will help you stay energized and focused.

We're almost at the finish line!

There’s no need to wait for next year to hit the reset button! Quarter 4 is the perfect opportunity to make significant strides toward your career and personal goals. Reevaluate, prioritize, and go after what matters most to you. By focusing on these last few months, you’ll set yourself up for success not only for the rest of this year but also for the year ahead.

Until next time, keep chasing your dreams!

Nirva Mentor

Embracing What Scares You: My Journey from Shy to Fearless

In life, we are often told to stay within our comfort zones, to avoid risks, and to play it safe. But what if the very thing that scares you is what leads you to greatness? As someone who was labeled as "too quiet and shy" for most of my life, I’ve learned that embracing fear can be a powerful catalyst for growth and success.

Here’s my journey of doing what scared me and how it transformed my life.

Moving Away to College

The first step in my journey was moving away to college. Everyone around me doubted my ability to make it on my own, insisting that I was too quiet and shy. Despite their doubts, I packed my bags and stepped into the unknown. It was terrifying, but it was also the beginning of my transformation.

Becoming an RA

In college, I decided to challenge myself further by signing up to become a Resident Assistant (RA). Once again, people told me I wasn’t cut out for it. They said I was too quiet and shy to handle the responsibilities. In this role, I proved my leadership abilities. Being an RA taught me conflict resolution and how to step up when needed.

Leading a Student Club

Not stopping there, I took on the role of President of a student-led club. This was another step that many thought I couldn't handle. They doubted my ability to lead and inspire. But I thrived in this role, learning to communicate effectively, manage a team, and create a vision for our club.

Switching Careers

After college, I faced the daunting decision of switching careers from Counseling to Recruiting. It was a significant change, filled with uncertainty and fear. But I trusted my instincts and made the leap. Each job change (9 companies since graduating!) brought new challenges and opportunities for growth. This is a story for another day, but each switch made me more adaptable and resilient.

Pursuing an MBA

Deciding to get my MBA was another intimidating step. Balancing work, studies, and personal life was no easy feat. Yet, it was a decision that expanded my knowledge, network, and career prospects.

Starting My Business

Perhaps the scariest leap was starting my own business. Entrepreneurship is fraught with risks and unknowns. But the desire to create something of my own, to help others, and to push beyond my limits drove me to take this bold step.

Moving Away from My Hometown

Finally, moving away from my hometown was another fear-filled decision. Leaving behind familiarity and comfort to start anew is never easy. But it allowed me to grow independently and gain new perspectives.

Why You Should Embrace Fear

Through each of these experiences, I’ve learned that fear is not a barrier but a signpost pointing towards growth. Doing what scares you forces you out of your comfort zone, challenges your limits, and ultimately, makes you stronger and more resilient.

Tips for Embracing What Scares You:

1. Acknowledge Your Fear: Recognize that fear is a natural response to the unknown.

2. Take Small Steps: Start with manageable challenges and gradually take on bigger ones.

3. Seek Support: Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage your growth.

4. Reflect on Your Progress: Regularly look back at how far you’ve come and celebrate your achievements.

5. Stay Persistent: Keep pushing forward, even when the going gets tough.

Embracing what scares you can lead to incredible growth and opportunities. My journey from a quiet and shy individual to a confident career coach and business owner is a testament to the power of stepping into fear. I encourage you to face your fears head-on and see where they take you.

Ready to Take the Leap?

If you’re ready to embrace what scares you and transform your career or business, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to turn your fears into stepping stones towards success.

Until next time, keep chasing your dreams!

Nirva Mentor

The Power of Networking in Career Transitions

Transitioning to a new career can be both exciting and stressful. Whether you're shifting to a new industry, role, or even starting a business, one element remains crucial for success: networking. As a career coach specializing in career transitions, I’ve seen firsthand how effective networking can open doors, provide support, and accelerate career growth.

In the past, networking made me so nervous. I worried about who would be in the room, and what if I didn't know anyone there or didn't meet anyone? Then I took a breath and realized everyone attending is there for the same reason - to network! This became my reminder every time I made excuses not to attend a networking event. I also started setting a goal to connect with at least one person. This helped change my perspective, and now I walk into events more confidently and leave feeling empowered and excited to make more connections.

Here’s how you can leverage networking to navigate your career change successfully.

Why Networking Matters

1. Access to Opportunities: Many job openings aren’t advertised. Networking can uncover hidden opportunities through referrals and insider information.

2. Gaining Insights: Conversations with professionals in your desired field can provide valuable insights into industry trends, company cultures, and the skills needed for success.

3. Building Confidence: Engaging with others can build your confidence, improve your communication skills, and help you articulate your career goals more effectively.

4. Receiving Support: A robust network can offer emotional support, mentorship, and guidance during the transition period.

Steps to Effective Networking

1. Identify Your Network: Start with your existing connections. Make a list of friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances who might have valuable insights or connections in your desired field.

2. Expand Your Network: Join professional associations, attend industry conferences, and participate in online forums and groups related to your target industry.

3. Leverage Social Media: LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking. Update your profile, join industry groups, and actively engage with content relevant to your new career path.

4. Request Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in your desired field and request informational interviews. This is a low-pressure way to learn more about the industry and make valuable connections.

5. Attend Networking Events: Both virtual and in-person events can be great for meeting new people. Prepare an elevator pitch about your career transition and be ready to discuss your goals and interests.

6. Follow Up: After meeting someone new, follow up with a thank you note or message. Keep in touch by sharing relevant articles, congratulating them on their achievements, or simply checking in periodically.

Remember to be genuine in your connections and choose networking events that will help you achieve your goals. Building a network takes time. Be patient and consistent, and remember that each connection has the potential to lead to new opportunities.

Until next time, keep chasing your dreams!

Nirva Mentor