Maven, can we have a quick heart-to-heart? The finish line for 2024 is within reach. But this moment isn’t just about crossing it—it’s about how you do it. With clarity. With confidence. And, of course, with that signature Maven flair that sets you apart.
Let’s be real for a second: this time of year can feel like a pressure cooker. Deadlines loom, holiday plans pile up, and somewhere in the chaos, you catch yourself wondering: “Did I do enough this year?” But here’s the truth—you’ve done more than enough, and now is the time to close this chapter with purpose.
This is your opportunity to finish intentionally and start 2025 from a place of strength and alignment. So, let’s talk about how to wrap up the year in a way that reflects your vision, values, and confidence. Ready? Let’s go!
Step 1: Reflect and Reset
Before you do anything else, pause.
Take a moment to look back at 2024. What did you accomplish? What challenges stretched you in ways you didn’t expect? Write it all down—not just the shiny wins but the subtle, meaningful moments of growth. Maybe you found the courage to set boundaries, made progress on a project you’ve been nurturing, or simply survived a tough season. Every single step counts.
But reflection doesn’t end with the good stuff. It’s also about asking yourself: “What am I ready to release?” That lingering guilt over things left undone? Let it go. The habit that no longer serves you? Time to drop it. This is your moment to reset—to step into clarity and create space for what matters most.
Think of this as your leadership tune-up: keeping what aligns and leaving the rest behind.
Step 2: Prioritize Like a Maven
Here’s the thing: you don’t have to do it all. (Yes, Maven, read that again.)
As you wrap up the year, ask yourself: “What’s truly important to me right now?” Maybe it’s doubling down on a key goal, taking the time to reconnect with loved ones, or simply giving yourself permission to rest. Whatever it is, let that priority guide your next steps.
And here’s your reminder: saying “no” isn’t just allowed—it’s necessary. Saying “no” to something that doesn’t align with your goals or energy is a powerful act of leadership. It’s a way of honoring your values, your time, and the vision you’re creating for 2025.
Step 3: Bring the Flair
Now, let’s talk about that Maven magic.
What makes you feel unstoppable? Whether it’s putting on a playlist that gets you hyped, slipping into an outfit that screams “I’ve got this,” or planning a celebration that’s all about you—bring your unique flair to these final weeks.
Flair is more than just style; it’s about owning your confidence. It’s about leaning into the rituals, routines, and moments that remind you who you are and why you’re here. So don’t hold back. This is your time to finish 2024 with boldness and pride.
Why It Matters
How you finish one chapter sets the tone for the next. When you reflect, prioritize, and bring your unique touch to the table, you’re not just wrapping up 2024—you’re preparing to lead yourself into 2025 with purpose.
This isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what aligns. It’s about stepping into the next season with clarity, confidence, and the assurance that you’re exactly where you need to be.
Your Maven Takeaway
Maven, let’s finish this year the way you deserve: strong, focused, and unapologetically you. Reflect on how far you’ve come, prioritize what moves you forward, and add that touch of you that no one else can replicate.
This is your moment to lead well, live well, and step into 2025, ready for all the greatness ahead.
Want More Inspiration?
🎧 Check out my guest appearance on the No Labels No Limits Podcast, where we dive into resilience, leadership, and using challenges as stepping stones.
📺 Prefer watching? Catch the full episode on YouTube for actionable strategies to carry into the new year.
Let’s make this year-end count, Maven. Lead well. Live well. And don’t forget to shine—because 2025 is ready for you.
Alright, Maven Nation, we’re stepping into that time of year again. You know, the one where we’ve got decorations popping up, calendars filling faster than ever, and everyone asking, “How am I going to make it through this season?!”
[Pause] What if we could change the vibe this year? Instead of just surviving the holidays, let’s set the stage to thrive. Yes, it’s possible, and yes, we’re doing this together!
Work-Life Integration During the Holidays: Let’s Get Real
The holidays don’t have to throw your work-life integration out the window. In fact, this season can be an opportunity to create rhythms that help you find more joy—not more stress. Imagine starting January energized, focused, and ready to crush those goals—no “recovery period” required!
Let’s walk through a few ways you can set the tone for a holiday season that serves you.
1. Set Intentions, Not Just Plans
It’s easy to let the holidays become a blur of obligations, but setting clear intentions can keep you grounded. Ask yourself, “How do I want to feel this season?” Maybe you’re craving peace, joy, or even just more downtime. I know you are like me and we have been BAMing all year! Once you’re clear on that, shape your schedule and boundaries to make it happen.
For some of you, that might mean tighter work hours to maximize family time. For others, it’s carving out some moments just for you—and you know I mean guilt-free.
2. Give Yourself Permission to Say “No”
Uhm, Maven, you don’t have to say “yes” to every single invitation or opportunity that comes your way. You’ve got the Maven’s permission slip to say, “No, thank you” to anything that doesn’t align with your energy. Protect your peace and stand by your priorities. Yeah, someone might be disappointed, but they will be alright.
For more on setting boundaries, check outEpisode #29 of Leadership Wellness Circle, where I share some quick takes on enjoying luxurious and affordable self-care. It’s real talk about showing up for you during a time when everyone wants a piece of your time.
3. Make Self-Care Non-Negotiable
Self-care isn’t selfish, especially during the holidays. Think of it as the fuel you need to keep the season joyful. Maybe it’s a morning coffee routine before the house wakes up, a short walk, or even a weekly “unplug” hour. Whatever it looks like for you, make it non-negotiable.
When you prioritize your well-being, you’re a better leader, friend, partner, and parent/auntie. Everyone benefits when you’re taking care of you.
4. Reflect on and Celebrate Your Wins
We often rush to set new goals, but don’t skip the powerful step of celebrating how far you’ve come. The end of the year is a prime time for reflection. Think about the challenges you’ve overcome, the goals you’ve achieved, and the growth you’ve experienced. Honor yourself before moving into a new season.
Ready to Thrive?
Alright, Maven, you have what you need! Remember: you are the architect of your experience. Create one that aligns with your values, protects your peace, and celebrates your journey.
Let’s wrap up 2024 intentionally and stride into 2025, refreshed with the capacity to receive more.
And hey, for more tips on cultivating balance, building resilience, and finding joy in leadership, check out a previous blog post,“They Are Not Your People,” for insights on creating boundaries and nurturing meaningful connections.
Lead Well. Live Well. and genuinely enjoy your holiday season!
As leaders, we are bound to cross paths with a variety of personalities, ideas, and perspectives. While this diversity is a beautiful part of leadership, it can also present a challenge: not everyone we meet is meant to stay in our circle. And guess what? That’s perfectly okay! Learning to recognize when someone is not your people doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with them—or you. It simply means you are navigating your leadership journey with intentionality, listening to your intuition, and curating the right connections.
“I am not for everyone and everyone is not for me.” ~ ‘Maven’ Miara
Trusting Your Intuition
One of the most powerful tools we have as leaders is our intuition. Sometimes, our gut feeling tells us that someone doesn’t quite fit into our vision, goals, or values. This doesn’t make them “bad” or “less than”—it just means they aren’t aligned with where you’re heading.
I’ve had my fair share of moments where I felt that internal nudge. You know the one: that soft whisper that says, “This isn’t quite the right fit” or “Girl run!” In the past, I’d brush it off, convincing myself that I could make this relationship work because, as leaders, aren’t we supposed to be adaptable and inclusive? Maven, I quickly learned that forcing connections out of obligation or fear of hurting feelings only leaves everyone drained and frustrated. I’m not here for it.
Not Everyone Is for You—And That’s a Good Thing!
It’s liberating when you finally accept that you don’t need to resonate with everyone you meet. The truth is, that trying to include everyone in your circle dilutes your focus and energy. As leaders, we need people around us who challenge us in positive ways, lift us when we’re down, and understand our vision. These people bring out the best in us, and we do the same for them.
When you spend too much time with those who aren’t aligned with your mission, you may find yourself questioning your goals, energy, and purpose. It’s not about cutting people off or ghosting them (please don’t use this tactic as grown women), but rather realizing that you both deserve circles that encourage growth in the best way possible. Das it!
Leave People Better Than You Found Them
Here’s the key takeaway: just because someone isn’t your “people” doesn’t mean you leave them worse off. In fact, one of the hallmarks of effective leadership is ensuring that everyone you encounter leaves your presence in a better state. Maybe that means giving them honest, respectful feedback, providing a resource they need, or simply letting them know that they are appreciated, even if they’re not part of your core circle.
You never know what seeds of encouragement, wisdom, or support you’re planting in someone’s life, and even when parting ways, you can do so with grace and goodwill. It’s not about creating enemies or causing divisions but about acknowledging the unique paths we each must take.
Keep Searching for Your People
The beautiful part of understanding who isn’t your people is that it clarifies who is. When you honor your intuition and clear space, it makes room for authentic, mutually beneficial relationships to come into your life. You’ll start to attract people who understand your vision and share your values. These are the people who will stand with you through challenges and celebrate your victories genuinely. They are your people, and they will make your leadership journey richer and more fulfilling.
So, keep seeking. Keep meeting new people, engaging in conversations, and learning about others’ experiences. But remember that not everyone needs to stay. Trust that your people are out there, and when they arrive, you’ll recognize them by how they make you feel—energized, supported, and understood. On my podcast episode 28, I share “How Leaders Cultivate Savvy Networks Through Relationship Building” which gives you more insight on building YOUR network.
Another fantastic resource I’m currently diving into is the book Likeable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Desire by Alison Fragale, PhD. It’s a practical, fun-to-read playbook designed for women—and our allies—who want to excel in the workplace while embracing their full power. Packed with valuable tips, tricks, and strategies, this book offers guidance on building the confidence we sometimes find elusive. If you’re looking to level up, this is definitely a must-read!
Leadership is as much about connecting with others as it is about knowing who not to connect with. When you trust your intuition and allow yourself to release those who aren’t aligned with your purpose, you’ll step into greater clarity and strength as a leader and avoid the extra drama!
And always, always strive to leave people better than you found them. The world needs more leaders who uplift, even when they part ways. I hope you have the desire, courage, and capacity to be that leader.
Hi there! I'm Maven’ Miara. I'm a Hope Curator & Confidence Cultivator who works with high-achieving, purpose pursuing baddies to help them move from STUCK to EXECUTION in creating the lifestyle they desire.
Hi there! I'm Maven’ Miara. I'm a Hope Curator & Confidence Cultivator who works with high-achieving, purpose pursuing baddies to help them move from STUCK to EXECUTION in creating the lifestyle they desire.