Most of you know by now that I strongly encourage everyone to take a Personal Retreat Day once a month to rest, reflect, and reorient. But I also suggest you set aside extra time at the beginning of each quarter to look back over a longer period of time. Companies do this, and it helps ensure they are on track with long-term goals. Call it an extended “check in.” October is right around the corner, so this is a perfect time for you to review Q3 and look ahead to the final quarter of 2023.
When Should I Do This?
My quarterly reviews don’t take long, and I normally just tack them onto a PRD. Alternatively, I might take an hour on a Sunday before the next quarter starts.
What’s Included in a Quarterly Review?
Similar to the way we reflect and plan during a PRD, during a Quarterly Review you’ll look back, then look ahead. The only difference is you’re looking at a longer period of time: three months instead of one. You’re getting a higher-level view, so you’ll be focusing on broad patterns, not the nitty-gritty details.
I ask these questions during my Quarterly Reviews:
- What word or phrase comes to mind as I think of the previous season?
- What were some highlights? List any enjoyable activities, accomplishments, fond memories
- Did I notice any patterns or themes?
- How am I doing on annual or quarterly goals? Do I need to make adjustments?
Looking ahead to the next three months, I ask myself:
- What’s on the horizon? List any big events, deadlines, vacations
- What are my hopes for this season?
- What steps can I take this quarter to make progress on my long term goals?
- Jot down any other thoughts about the season ahead
My Challenge for You
Spend time this week doing your own Quarterly Review, whether it’s during a PRD, finding a spare hour over the weekend, or one morning as you write in your daily journal. Then email me at wende@personalretreatday.com to let me know you did it!