As we step into a new year, I’m seeing the familiar flood of New Year’s resolutions. They’re well-intentioned, often thoughtful, and occasionally even transformative. But let’s be honest: resolutions are notorious for fading as quickly as they appear.
The concept is sound. Reflection matters. Goals matter. But this year, I’m challenging you not to make another resolution. Instead, make a commitment.
A commitment carries gravity. It’s a promise we take seriously, one that will shape our behavior long after the enthusiasm of January wanes. And the commitment I’m calling for in 2026 is simple, powerful, and deeply personal: Commit to putting fear aside.
Fear is clever. It disguises itself as caution, practicality, and stability. But fear is also the silent force that blocks us from new adventures, greater potential, and genuine happiness.
In our evolution, fear kept us alive. In our careers, fear keeps us stuck.
Job-hugging is just another name for settling ‒ and I’ve yet to hear a great story that starts with “I decided to play it safe.” The people who inspire us, the ones who change industries, companies, and themselves, are the ones who dared to step into the uncomfortable unknown.
We get one shot at this thing called life. Let’s take that shot with intention.
Ask yourself: In six months, will I be doing what I truly want to be doing?
If you’re working, start moving in that direction now ‒ quietly, steadily, confidently. Explore. Prepare. Initiate conversations ‒ that’s how doors open, often when you least expect it.
If you’re not working, the mandate is the same: explore, prepare, and get into conversations. Build momentum. Schedule lunches about industries and ideas ‒ not about your need for a job. Expand your knowledge. And most importantly, reflect honestly on what has made you successful and what has brought you joy in your career. Allow a little discomfort in that reflection ‒ it’s often where clarity begins.
So, this year, make a commitment to yourself.
A commitment to courage.
A commitment to forward motion.
A commitment to the version of you that refuses to be held back.
Take the steps toward what’s next. Your future self will thank you ‒ loudly ‒ this time next year!
