The last weeks of the year are the perfect time to pause, look back and plan ahead. A short, structured review takes an hour or two and can shape the whole of next year. This year-end review checklist covers money, work, health and personal goals, and uses our Weeks Left in the Year tool to keep the timing in view.
1. Money
- Total savings now vs at the start of the year
- Debts: what was paid off, what remains
- Zakat calculated and paid; see the Zakat Calculator
- Tax: deductions, returns and documents filed
- Next year’s budget and savings target
2. Work and career
- Main achievements, with numbers where possible
- Skills learned and certificates earned
- Salary changes; check your raise with the Salary Calculator
- What you want from next year: promotion, new job, new skills
3. Health
- Regular check-ups and tests
- Activity levels and sleep
- Habits to keep or change
4. Learning
- Books read and courses finished
- One skill to focus on next year
5. Family and relationships
- Time spent together
- Important dates for next year: weddings, admissions, travel
6. Home and documents
- CNIC, passport and licence expiry dates
- Insurance renewals
- Vehicle token tax and registration
- Important files backed up
Questions to ask
- What am I most proud of this year?
- What took more time or money than it was worth?
- What do I want to do more of next year?
- What is the one goal that would make next year great?
Turn it into a plan
Choose one to three goals and break them into quarters. The Year Calendar helps you see the whole year at once. For week-based planning, read making the remaining weeks count.
Frequently asked questions
When should I do a year-end review?
In the last few weeks of the year, or at the end of your financial year.
How long does it take?
An hour or two for a simple personal review.
How many goals should I set for next year?
One to three main goals are easier to achieve than a long list.