It’s that time again — when the days feel shorter, the emails feel longer, and before you know it, 2026 is basically waving from around the corner. Time really does fly — especially when you’re busy being a responsible adult. So, before we sprint into the holidays (and the next year), maybe it’s time for a little check-in — a November self-audit, if you will.
Let’s see where we really are.
The Personal Check-In: You, Beyond the Job Title
When was the last time you did something purely for you? Not a meeting, not a workout you forced yourself to attend — but something that made you genuinely happy?
Ask yourself:
- Have I been kind to myself this year, or am I running on autopilot?
- Am I spending quality time with people I love (family, your children, friends)— or mostly with my inbox?
- Do I have a hobby, or has Netflix become my personality again?
- When was the last time I said, “I’m proud of myself,” and meant it?
- And here’s the big one: am I sleeping, eating, and breathing like a functional human… or just existing on caffeine and deadlines?
Sometimes, self-care isn’t a bubble bath — it’s saying no, taking a walk, or remembering that rest is part of progress.
The Professional Check-In: Your Career Pulse
Now, let’s look at the career side of the mirror. It’s been a busy year — endless calls, projects, deliverables, and “urgent” emails that were actually not that urgent.
Ask yourself:
- Am I genuinely happy with what I’m doing right now?
- Have I grown — in skill, confidence, or even just perspective?
- Did this year’s work move me closer to where I want to be professionally, or did it just fill my calendar?
- What kind of work do I want to do more of next year — and what should I leave behind?
- Am I showing up with purpose, or just showing up out of habit?
And please, let’s normalize celebrating small wins — not just promotions or titles. The days you kept calm under chaos, solved a tough issue, or learned something new? Those count too.
The Financial Check-In: Money Talks (and Sometimes Whispers)
Not the most romantic topic, I know — but financial peace of mind is emotional peace of mind.
- Did I stick to my saving goals, or did my “treat yourself” budget turn into a full-time lifestyle?
- Am I still working toward that big purchase, that retirement plan, or just winging it and hoping for the best?
- Do I actually understand where my money went this year? (No judgment — we all have mystery expenses.)
If not, maybe December’s gift to yourself should be a better relationship with your finances — one built on clarity, not guilt.
The Bonus Check-In: Balance, Purpose, and Presence
Let’s zoom out. Are we living on purpose, or are we just reacting to what life throws at us? Do we pause enough to appreciate the view — or do we only look up when it’s already December 31st?
Maybe 2025 wasn’t perfect (whose year ever is?), but if it taught you something — about boundaries, priorities, or even your own resilience — that’s growth worth celebrating.
Final Thought
Before we close the laptop for the year, take a breath. You’ve done your best — even on the days it didn’t feel like it. And if you’re already planning 2026? Remember: balance isn’t built overnight — it’s built in moments like this one.
So here’s to you — the hardworking, tired, curious, evolving version of you. Check in. Reflect. Adjust. And celebrate how far you’ve already come.
