If you’re thinking ahead to the new year and want to start strong without slipping into the usual overwhelm, this episode will help you do exactly that.

This is Michael’s Version of one of the most downloaded episodes I’ve ever released — a refreshed, clearer, more aligned re-recording of “How to Plan Your Best Year.”

Much like Taylor Swift re-recording her albums, this is the episode I always wanted to release: still built on the same evidence-based principles as the original, but now sharper, more grounded, and easier to apply.

In this episode, I walk you through a science-backed approach to planning your year that avoids the biggest traps most people fall into.

We explore why long-term motivation often collapses after the initial excitement, and how to design your goals in a way that your brain can sustain over time.

You’ll learn:

• Why only about 10% of New Year’s goals make it past February
• The six evidence-based principles that create a meaningful, achievable year
• How to define what “your best year” actually means (without unrealistic pressure)
• A simple, powerful 4-step protocol for planning your year
• The most common planning mistakes — and how to avoid them
• Four success strategies to keep your goals achievable, energizing, and realistic

Whether you’re looking to make progress on a few important goals or you simply want a more sustainable approach to planning the year ahead, this episode will help you clarify what matters, set achievable targets, and create momentum that lasts.

Resources Mentioned:

• Register for my December workshop: How to Plan Your 2026 Goals Without Burnout
• Join the Thrive Hive for monthly support, tools, and coaching

December 2025 Best Year Workshop

If you want to plan ahead and create your plan for next year, where you actually create the life you want and achieve your goals, check out my Best Year Year workshop at invictus.coach/yearend

Instantly Unlock Performance, Well-Being and Balance Now

The "Thrive Hive" is a monthly membership to help teach, coach and support individuals, organizational teams and their leaders in reaching their full potential, and living a flourishing life with balance and well-being.

You get access to group coaching, monthly education, webinars/livecasts and other events, topic-based support and tools, and access to a private community of other like-minded individuals.

You can find out more or sign up clicking here!