The Leader You Become in 2026 Starts Now: Why December Matters More Than January
Strong years don’t begin in January. They begin in December. In Week 1 of the SSLW December Reset, we explore why intentional reflection today shapes your leadership tomorrow — and we begin the journey toward your 2026 Leadership Guidepost.
There’s something unique about December.
On the surface, it looks like a slowdown month — schedules ease up, routines relax, and many leaders shift into “coast mode.” But the more I’ve paid attention to my own leadership rhythms, the more I’ve realized something:
December determines January.
I’ve had years where I entered a new year aligned, focused, and grounded.
And I’ve had years where I entered scattered and exhausted.
And as I look back, the consistent theme is clear:
The decisions I made in December shaped the direction I carried into the new year.
Intentionality Sets the Direction
Proverbs 4:26 encourages us to “ponder the path of your feet,” reminding us that strong leadership begins with intentional steps. It’s rarely the big moments that shape a leader — it’s the small daily choices when no one’s watching.
John Maxwell frames it well:
“You will never change your life until you change something you do daily.”
Three Spheres of Leadership
Whether we realize it or not, every leader carries influence in three arenas:
Lead Myself
Lead My Family
Lead My Team
These three spheres anchor the entire December Reset journey.
The One Word That Shapes a Year
Throughout this month, we’ll also work toward identifying your One Word for 2026 — a simple, powerful word that brings clarity and direction to your leadership.
I’ve used a “one word” focus for several years, and it’s made a significant difference in helping me stay grounded and intentional. Leaders like Craig Groeschel and Jon Gordon teach this approach because it simplifies your focus and strengthens your direction.
Not a resolution.
Not a long list of goals.
Just one clear word that shapes the way you lead yourself, your family, and your team.
Week 1: Where Am I Now?
Before choosing a word or setting any goals for 2026, we begin with honest reflection:
Where am I right now as a leader?
Not where you wish you were.
Not where you “should” be.
Where you truly are.
This week’s worksheet will guide that reflection — and help you start preparing your 2026 Leadership Guidepost.
Because strong years don’t start in January.
They start now.