As hairstylists, the end of the year can feel like a whirlwind, but it’s an incredible
opportunity to pause, look back at all you’ve accomplished, and prepare to step into the
new year with intention and energy. Let’s break it down into three steps:
Reflect, refocus, and recharge so you can end this year strong and start the next one
even stronger.

Reflect:

The first step is to take a moment and look back at the year with gratitude and
honesty. It’s easy to move so quickly from one thing to the next that we forget to
appreciate how far we’ve come. Think about the moments this year that made you feel
proud-big or small. Maybe you mastered a challenging technique, grew your color
correction skills, or introduced vivid colors that your clients couldn’t stop raving about.
Did you expand your client base, get work-life balance under control, or finally take a
class you been putting off? Celebrate it. These wins are proof of your hard work.
Every hairstylist faces challenges, whether it’s a difficult client conversation,
learning a new skill, or figuring out a new business system. Take a moment to identify
what didn’t go as planned, or maybe where you feel like you fell short, remember growth
happens in these moments.

One of the most rewarding parts of our work is the relationships we build. Reflect
on those transformations that went beyond the chair-the client who trusted you with a
big change, the first-time client who became a regular, or the moments you provided
comfort during a tough time. Write down your wins, lessons, and favorite memories to
close out your year feeling proud and purposeful.

Refocus

With reflection comes clarity. Now it’s time to refocus and look ahead. What do
you want to achieve in the new year? Think about habits, techniques, and business
practices that worked well for you this year. Maybe it was a new online booking system,
a routine that kept you organized, or a new way of consulting with a client. Double down
on these strengths.

On the other side, take a note of what’s holding you back. Is it double booking,
fear of raising your prices, maybe burn out? Acknowledge these things and let them go
so you can move forward with clarity. Take some time away from the salon, away from
your house, maybe spend an afternoon at a cute coffee shop to just focus on goal
setting for the new year. What do you want to accomplish, where do you want to focus
your energy and time? What is one goal you can set for yourself in the skill-building
category? What classes or certifications will help you level up? Are you ready to explore
a new color technique or add a new service. In the financial category, do you want to
increase your prices, attract higher-value clients, or maybe save more money this year.
Personal development is always one of my favorite categories to goal set in, because
as we know we are only as good as our best self. How can you find better balance and
show up as your best self? Now is the time to plan so you are ready to hit the ground
running in the new year.

Recharge

Hairstylists pour so much of our energy into others, but we can’t give our best if
were running on empty. Recharging isn’t just about rest, it’s about setting yourself up to
start the new year feeling refreshed, inspired, and ready. When you take on time to rest,
you are protecting your creativity, your passion, and your mental health. You’ll come
back to the chair with fresh ideas and a renewed sense of purpose, which can make all
the difference. It is important to schedule “me time,” move your body, prioritize sleep
and nutrition, and set boundaries. What inspires you? What brings you joy? How do you
want to feel?

As you wrap up this year, take a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come,
refocus on where you want to go, and give yourself permission to recharge. Celebrate
your unique journey and step into the new year with clarity, intention, and excitement for
all that’s to come.