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Every December seems to come with the same message: Push harder. Finish strong. Get it all done before the year ends.

But if you’re feeling stretched thin right now between projects, deadlines, holiday logistics, and the mental load of “wrapping up” the year, you're in good company. This season is a challenge for all of us, but how we approach it can make or break it. But here's the thing:

Finishing strong shouldn’t mean finishing exhausted.

In fact, research shows the opposite. Productivity expert Chris Bailey found that after several weeks of 60-hour workweeks, total output matched what workers produced in 40-hour weeks.

More hours didn’t lead to more results; they only led to more burnout.

So if the year-end push feels unsustainable, it’s because…it is. If you want to finish the year without burning out, consider these tips:

1️⃣ Reduce capacity where possible

Not everything needs to happen before December 31st. Ask yourself:

• What can wait until January?
• What can be simplified or done “good enough”?
• What can be shared or released?

Sometimes the fastest way to check something off your list is to remove it.

2️⃣ Try intentional sprinting—not hustling

A sprint is a short burst of focused energy with recovery built in. Hustle is a long-term push with no rest in sight.

A sprint might look like:

• 30 minutes of deep work
• One priority task completed fully
• A half day of focus broken up with real breaks

The key is choosing one priority and honoring the recovery afterward.

3️⃣ Before you say yes to more, pause and ask:

• Does this truly need to happen before year-end?
• Who am I doing this for—my values or someone else’s expectations?
• What would finishing gently look like instead of finishing frantically?

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If you want to explore this more deeply, this week’s podcast episode digs into how to finish the year burnout-free. It includes research insights, real-life examples, and a simple two-part strategy you can start today.

>> Listen to the podcast here​
>> Read the blog post here​

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Your future self—especially your January self—will thank you for honoring your energy now.
♥

Lisa

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**HOLIDAY Accountability Special ENDS TODAY**

Today's the deadline for this HALF OFF special with BONUS. Lock in the deal this month and we can get started in the new year.

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