Final Quarter
Happy Sunday, everyone.
I have been reflecting on two words: final quarter. And I find a lot of things come to mind. While we are truly in the final months of 2024, there is a lot of “catching up” to do, reviewing what has been done, not done, and there is the question of “is there still time?”
We love the feeling of a fresh start. January 1, 2025, will be different. It’s the new start to the year, we are at the top. And we may find ourselves trying to shove old business of the past year away like company is coming over in a few minutes. Throw everything in the drawers and the closet. If you know, you know.
That’s kind of how the final quarter feels, right? Company is coming, you had all year, but here you are…rushing.
Another way of thinking about the final quarter is perhaps a basketball game or marking period in school. We warm up in the first trying to find pacing and momentum. By the time we get to the last, fourth, or final quarter, energy is quite different. If you have ever watched a sporting event, you know what I mean. Time is no longer taken for granted; every second counts.
In today’s economy, I don’t know what a quarter (25 cents) can even get me. As a child, I remember a few good items at a New York City deli/bodega cost about a quarter. Quarter water, juice with the foil on top, honey buns, twinkies, and a small pack of sunflower seeds. Depending on where you are today, a quarter can get you 15 minutes on a parking meter.
No matter where you are and what you are doing, all I know is that the final quarter counts. A lot. Wrapping up business, bringing things to a close, accomplishing personal goals, trying to win a competitive game, trying to get something to eat or drink, or just 15 more minutes…that final quarter, time or money, is important.
What did you do this year?
What did you want to do?
What have you postponed until next year?
Personally, I feel stuck between two pieces of advice. One, don’t put things off anymore, you’re sleeping on yourself or doubting yourself. And two, be patient, give yourself grace. Giving myself grace means if I don’t want to, or feel I don’t have the bandwidth to do something, don’t do it, and that’s okay, right? I think that’s what that means. Can you relate? Wanting to do so much, lofty ideas, and not enough bandwidth or resources?
The idea of the "last quarter" often emphasizes urgency, reflection, and intentional action. Here are some things to consider for this final quarter:
Reflection: Spend time thinking about experiences, legacy, and accomplishments.
Spend time with loved ones: Prioritizing relationships with family, friends, and partners
Traveling or pursuing hobbies: "Bucket list" activities become more important.
Financial planning: Managing savings and other accounts/investments
Mentorship: Is there an opportunity to give back in time, knowledge, or other valuable resources?
Readjusting the Mental Mindset:
Push harder to win: Where can you find internal motivation? Accountability?
Maintain focus under pressure: Fatigue may set in, but keep your focus on your goal(s). Don’t forget your “why”
Make key decisions: Important adjustments are made at this time including re-prioritizing
Preserve a lead or make a comeback: If you are ahead, keep the momentum. If not, how can you change the direction of things for desired outcome?
Evaluating performance: Assess the year’s progress with honest feedback
Strategic planning: Setting new goals and projects for the coming year.
Problem-solving: Quickly address any last-minute issues.
Pacing energy: Stay motivated to finish strong and prevent burn-out
Delivering on time: Making sure everything is wrapped up by the deadline.
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