16: A Quiet Year-End Reset and How to Prepare for Your 2026 Pivot

Second Act Simplified
Written By Jaime

The end of the year always feels split between two things.
The rush to finish everything and the quiet pull to slow down.

The holidays are busy for most of us, even when they’re the good kind of busy. That’s why I hope you’re finding some rest in the business.

  • A walk.

  • A quiet morning.

  • A pause before the next obligation.

As I close out this year, I’ve been asking myself three simple questions:

  • What did I learn?

  • What do I want to keep doing?

  • What do I want to stop doing?

These questions matter, especially as we start thinking about 2026.

Progress Isn’t Perfect and That’s the Point

This year, I started the Second Act Simplified podcast. It hasn’t been flawless. I’ve hit record without my microphone on and had to re-record episodes. I’ve learned in real time.

That experience reminded me of something important. Don’t wait for perfection before you start. Just start. You improve by practicing and time.

Waiting for perfection keeps you stuck. Action gives you information. Information gives you confidence.

Thinking About Your Own Next Chapter

If you’ve felt a pull toward something new, a project, a hobby, a side hustle, or simply a different pace of life, the new year is a good time to listen.

You don’t have to change everything at once. Start by thinking it through and moving one step at a time.

That’s why I created the Second Act Pathfinder, a simple, guided way to work through what’s next without pressure or overwhelm. It helps you look at where you are now and what direction actually fits this season of life.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As you move through the holidays, I hope you give yourself space to reset, reflect, and reconnect with what matters most.

I’m looking forward to walking into 2026 together, one grounded step at a time.

woman journaling at Christmas
Jaime

I write as Jaime—a nod to my writing journey while protecting my professional privacy. With 20 years of experience in the supply chain industry, I’ve navigated the challenges of balancing a career, family, and creative passions. I currently serve as an Advisor for the Ashland University Women in Leadership Executive Program, where I support and mentor women pursuing leadership excellence across industries.

I thrived in the early days of blogging during the rise of social media but later stepped back to embrace life’s ever-evolving chapters. As a proud parent in a blended family full of love (and plenty of pets!) and now embracing the early joys of grandparenthood, I’m excited to reignite my passion for writing.

Join me as I share my love for travel, gardening, DIY projects, and more—let’s explore life’s adventures together!

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