Once December is here, it kind of feels like the year is “basically over”. Only… it’s not. It still packs in a number of workdays and a bunch of last-minute tasks that need to be closed off before end-of-year. Couple that with the festive chaos and we’re in for a month that is nothing short of a whirlwind of overwhelm. However, while big goals and major projects may feel out of reach, there’s still room for progress, just in smaller, more manageable ways. There’s still time for small career wins before year-end.
These small career wins are focused, 10–30-minute career tasks that help you end the year a little more prepared, a little clearer, and a lot more confident heading into 2026. These aren’t resolutions. Instead think of them as mini-actions you can take even in the busiest month of the year.
Why Micro-Goals Work (Especially in December)
During a month filled with commitments, micro-goals reduce overwhelm, help you maintain momentum that will take you into 2026, create quick wins, support your long-term growth and, with any luck, also make January easier.
Instead of pressing pause until the new year, you can quietly strengthen your foundation, without investing hours you don’t have.
1. Refresh Your LinkedIn Headline (5 minutes)
Your headline works for you even when you’re not online. Update it to reflect your role, expertise, or the direction you want to grow in.
2. Note Down Your 2025 Wins (10–15 minutes)
Before the rush of January, take a few minutes to write down your achievements… big or small. You’ll thank yourself when updating your CV or preparing for performance reviews.
Think about projects completed, the targets you hit, the positive feedback received, the new skills you learned (formally or not) and challenges solved.
3. Update One Section of Your CV (10 minutes)
Not the whole thing, just one section at a time. Your profile, your latest role, or a quick bullet point refresh is enough to make your CV feel more current. Pick whichever feels easiest.
4. Reorganise Your Skills List (15 minutes)
Skills change quickly, and employers in Malta increasingly value adaptability, communication, digital competence, and customer experience.
Remove outdated skills, re-order by relevance, and add any tools or software you’re now confident using.
5. Do a Quick Visibility Check (10 minutes)
Search your name on Google and LinkedIn. Check what appears first. Ask yourself: Is it up to date and does it reflect your professional identity? A tiny action that improves your long-term presence.
6. Bookmark Courses You Want to Explore (5 minutes)
You don’t need to start a course in December. Just shortlist the ones that support your 2026 goals, especially if your employer offers learning budgets. You may want to work on your business skills, your AI literacy, digital communication or leadership skills. Have a look at our course listings and make sure you update your notification settings on your Keepmeposted profile to get notified about courses that are relevant to you.
7. Write One Career Intention for 2026 (2 minutes)
Not a resolution… a direction. Something calm, clear, and simple. Some examples could be: “I want to strengthen my communication skills.” It may also be more role related like “I want to grow in a team where my ideas matter” …or “I want a role with more stability/ a more creative role.” Intentions help guide your decisions without the pressure of strict goals.
8. Reconnect with One Professional Contact (5 minutes)
A quick message:
“Hope you’re doing well, would love to reconnect in the new year!” No agenda. No pressure.
Just keeping connections warm.
9. Clean Up Your Desktop or Work Folder (10 minutes)
A small but mighty mental reset. Organised digital spaces make January feel lighter.
10. Celebrate One Thing You Did Really Well This Year (1 minute)
Because growth also means recognising progress and not just chasing the next thing.
What this means
You don’t need to overhaul your career in December, you just need to keep moving forward, one small step at a time. These small career wins will help you stay intentional, stay visible, and stay prepared, all without adding to the festive stress. Even one 10-minute action this week is enough to start the new year on stronger footing.
Good luck!
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