How to start 2024 strong

Years ago, I ran the third leg of a 4 x 100 relay team. We were fast but what made us good were the transitions, the passing of the baton from one runner to the next. The race was won or lost in the transitions and not necessarily in the speed of the runners.

As we approach move into the last quarter of the year, we are moving steadily toward a transition from one year to the next. Before we know it, we will pass the year's baton between this year and the next.

Here are three things to do and questions to consider in order to start 2024 off strong,

1. Get in motion. In order to ensure a smooth, strong and fast transition in a relay, the runner receiving the baton must be in motion before the runner with the baton enters the zone for the baton handoff. The worst thing for the receiving runner to do is stand still while receiving the baton. It kills momentum and slows the race. As you begin to think about the end of the year and the beginning of 2024, we might be tempted to stop everything, but we do so at risk of killing momentum into the new year. What might staying in motion through the holiday season look like for you in order to move into 2024 with the same momentum as you end the year?

2. Set the boundaries of the transition. On a running track, a zone within which the baton can be handed from one runner to the next is clearly marked wherein the baton must be passed. Similarly, creating boundaries on the calendar within which you will focus time and effort on the transition from 2023 to 2024 is a good idea. It gives you focus and clarity toward the future. What dates might you pick to dedicate time and effort to casting a vision and/or setting goals for the new year?

3. Keep looking forward. The runner receiving the baton keeps his or her eyes forward down while reaching back for the baton to be handed off. If the runner receiving the baton looks back, momentum slows. What will you focus on in 2024? How does the work you are doing now to end 2023 contribute to the success of 2024 and help you keep your eyes looking forward into the new year?

Here's the bottom line, the new year will be here before we know it. Don't get flat footed and start the new year by trying to regain momentum. Keep your momentum moving into 2024 and start the year strong.

Remember, I'm pulling for you. We're in this together.