HOW TO ASSESS YOUR CAREER GOALS THIS DECEMBER

As the year winds down and inboxes (slowly) start to quiet, December is the perfect time to take a step back and reflect not just on what you achieved this year, but how you felt about it. 

In recruitment, we see it every year: January brings a surge of professionals re-evaluating their paths. But the truth is, the best career decisions aren’t made in a rush after the holidays they start now, with a little honest self-assessment. 

Here’s how to use December to get clarity on your career goals and set yourself up for a confident start to the new year. 

1. Reflect on the year. Ask yourself: 

• What did I enjoy most about my role this year? 

• When did I feel most engaged or challenged? 

• Which tasks drained my energy? 

This simple reflection can reveal patterns, maybe you’ve outgrown your current responsibilities, or perhaps you’ve discovered a new interest that could shape your next move. 

2. Check in with your goals (and your ‘why’) 
It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and lose sight of your bigger picture. Think about what success looks like for you now. Is it leading a team, gaining exposure to development projects, or finding better work-life balance? 

If your “why” has shifted, that’s not a setback, it’s growth. Your career goals should evolve as you do. 

3. Assess your skills and gaps 

• Where have you upskilled this year?  

• What new tools or systems have you mastered?  

• And where could you stretch further? 

Make a quick list of your standout strengths and a few areas to focus on in 2026. This helps you have more productive conversations with mentors, managers, or even recruiters when discussing next steps. 

4. Be honest about what’s not working 
Sometimes, clarity comes from identifying what you don’t want. Maybe it’s long hours, lack of growth, or a culture that no longer aligns with your values. Recognising these friction points helps you narrow your focus when exploring new opportunities. 

5. Act even small steps 
Update your CV, connect with people in your industry, or have a conversation with a recruiter who understands your space. Small, proactive steps in December can make a big difference come January, when the market starts to move again. 

Final thought: 
December isn’t just a time to wind down; it’s a time to realign. Give yourself the space to check in, reassess, and plan your next move with intention. Whether that means staying and growing where you are or exploring something new, clarity is the best gift you can give your future self.