New year, new outlook: January is the perfect time to hit the reset button and start the year with a fresh perspective on what's possible professionally. These are some tips to help you and your team get energized for the new year:

1. Reflect on lessons from the previous year. A candid "year in review" is an opportunity to revisit the highs and the lows of the previous 12 months. If your team missed a big sales goal, for example, it's tempting to let this negativity carry over into the new year. Reviewing what went wrong can be a catalyst for improvement. The same goes for reflecting on high points. How did everyone come together for success? How can this be replicated moving forward? As you reflect on the highs and lows, consider making a list of top lessons learned and how the team intends to apply these learnings moving forward.


2. Break down big business goals into actionable steps. Set yourself up for success by creating an action plan to help achieve your goals. For example, if your goal is to double your current client list by the end of the year, consider the small steps you'll need to take each month toward this goal. Next, break these steps down even further: how many prospective clients do you need to contact each week? Do you need new marketing collateral or an updated website to better showcase your services? Are there industry networking events you could attend to improve your reach? Share your goals with coworkers for improved accountability and ask for their input or recommendations.


3. Create SMART goals. Once you've started brainstorming about how you can achieve your big business goals, it's time to turn these into SMART goals. A SMART goal is one that is specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-based. For example, "gaining new skills" is very open-ended. To make this a SMART goal, you'd plan to pass an industry test certifying your knowledge of a specific topic relevant to your business by March. The SMART goal framework helps you achieve more by defining steps you need to take, necessary resources, and milestones along the way.


4. Build stronger coworker relationships. Teams thrive on mutual respect, trust, and camaraderie, and employees who don't feel appreciated by their coworkers are more likely to leave their jobs. One way to strengthen team bonds is to celebrate milestones and small accomplishments together. You don't have to wait for a huge client or major project to help the team feel valued and recognized. Consider naming someone the "MVP of the week" to recognize their contributions, such as working late one evening to finish a big report or helping to fix a client presentation at the last minute. Recognizing these small moments helps everyone feel valued and seen, improving morale, strengthening team ties, and lowering the risk for turnover.


5. Shake up your traditional team-building activities. In addition to classic standby calls try virtual happy hours or encourage everyone to get outside and take a break. Even by doing something individually, it can help build team morale by coming back together and sharing what you might do throughout your work day. Changing up your location can help employees think more creatively and bond while sharing new experiences.