UXL Blog

The beginning of the year is one of those rare times that is conducive to raising our heads and taking a bird’s-eye view of the year ahead. Normally, many of us tend to keep our heads down and march forward, one foot in front of the other, doing whatever daily work and tasks come our way. This way of living may seem a bit passive (or can even seem like “survival mode”), but many of us are too busy–or think we’re too busy–to do anything else.

However, focusing on the trees instead of the forest can get us into trouble and may actually be costing us valuable time and resources. We might not be working efficiently, for instance, or we may be heading down the wrong path entirely. Additionally, we may miss opportunities for creativity and innovation if we’re so focused on the daily “grind.”

I suggest taking a step back and thinking about the forest.

“Forest thinking” means seeing the big picture and considering all the many options that lay at your feet. This type of thinking inevitably involves reflection, which may not seem terribly appealing to some. Reflection, however, can be whatever you want it to be. It can involve journaling, talking out your ideas with a good listener, or taking a long walk and thinking about your options. It could also involve creating a vision board or a Pinterest board (if you’re a more visual person), or drawing a mind map.

The goal of forest thinking is really twofold:

1. It helps you identify where you are. What are you current struggles? What’s going well? What would you like to change?
2. It helps you identify where you’d like to go. What options are available to you? (and are you sure you’re not thinking too small?) What would your ideal year look like? How can you make that happen? Does a major change or changes need to happen? What are your personal goals? What are your dreams/aspirations?

As you consider these questions, do not put limits on yourself. Dare to dream! You deserve a great year ahead, and it’s okay to think big or consider making a major change (such as a career shift). This month, I challenge you to take a step back, reflect in whatever way suits you, and start seeing the forest ahead.

MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY (AND DEEPER DISCOVERY) LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE. 
CHECK OUT MARGARET’S ONLINE LEADERSHIP COURSE. 

Tags: forest thinking, forest thinking and planning next year, margaret smith career coach, Margaret Smith life coach, new year goals 2024, planning the year ahead, see the big picture