A month into 2025, many of us are still figuring out which New Year’s Resolutions we even want to take on. And, with many resolutions focused on the personal element of our lives, what about the professional part? Forget the lengthy lists of resolutions; here are four simple ways to be a better version of the workplace you in 2025:
South Africa (31 January 2025) — With one month of 2025 already done and dusted, many of us have had to stop and catch our breath in fear we might just blink and realise it’s November already. With so many resolutions focusing on the personal parts of our lives, it’s easy to forget that our professional selves might need a little makeover, too.
If January is all about getting back into the swing of things (especially in our professional worlds), then February offers the perfect opportunity to focus on refreshing the professional mindset.
The good news is that you don’t have to sit constructing the world’s longest list of resolutions to make change.
As Penquin’s co-managing director, Mandy Davis knows a thing or two about guiding not only herself but also others. As such, she is sharing a helpful take on how to tackle the year ahead, your best professional-self edition!
Don’t Just Set Goals for the Sake of It
Goal-setting in January is almost a tradition, but according to Mandy, it shouldn’t be about ticking boxes for the sake of it.
“Without clear goals, it’s easy to get stuck in the daily grind without making meaningful progress,” she says.
Goal-setting starts with asking the right questions. ’Where do you want to be?’ or ‘What’s going to move the needle?’ and ‘What is the needle you need to move?’.
When your goals are clear, so too become the steps you need to take.
Lock in on a New Mindset
The start of the year is a prime time to take stock of not just what you’re doing but how you’re doing it, AKA mindfulness.
“Are you leading with curiosity? Are you open to new ways of thinking? Are you genuinely listening to your team and clients?” Mandy asks.
Refreshing your mindset also means keeping a finger on the pulse of your industry.
“AI, consumer trends, data-led decision-making—it’s all evolving fast. The people who thrive aren’t just reacting to change; they’re shaping how they adapt to it.”
Charting a Roadmap for Success
Success isn’t linear, and Mandy is quick to point this out.
“It’s a series of adjustments along the way. Start with the big picture—where do you want to go? Then break it down into tangible steps. And don’t forget to check in regularly.”
However, flexibility is key. Practical, adaptable steps will often take you much further than rigid blueprint maps.
“Stay focused, but don’t be afraid to shift gears when opportunities—or challenges—arise,” shares Mandy.
Keep a Fresh Perspective
Your mindset sets the tone for your actions, and your perspective helps you keep yourself in check.
“If you approach the year stuck in old habits, you’ll get the same results. But if you bring fresh energy, curiosity, and a willingness to challenge yourself, opportunities will pop up everywhere.”
Mandy also points out that a refreshed mindset doesn’t just benefit you—it inspires those around you. “When you show up with clarity and energy, it creates a ripple effect. That’s how you build momentum.”
Her ultimate advice is to stay curious, embrace change, and never get too comfortable. After all, growth comes from challenging yourself, seeing feedback as an opportunity, and constantly looking for better ways to do things.
“The new year is a great time to reset, but the real magic is in how you show up every day,” Mandy concludes.
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