Pause, Plan, Pivot - How to Keep Your Career Moving (Even During the Holidays)
Let’s be honest - by the time December hits, most of us are running on caffeine, nostalgia, and sheer willpower. The office is quiet, your inbox slows down, and you’re this close to setting your out-of-office reply to “currently eating cookies.”
And honestly? You should rest. You deserve it.
But here’s the secret most people miss: the holidays are actually one of the best times to set yourself up for career success - without burning out or hustling through your break.
I know because I’ve seen it firsthand - clients who used this “quiet” season to reflect, reconnect, and plan ended up starting the new year with more clarity and confidence than ever.
That’s why I created my free guide, Pause, Plan, Pivot: Keep Your Career Moving (Even During the Holidays) - it’s full of smart, stress-free strategies to help you recharge and build momentum before January hits.
Why the Holidays Are Secretly a Career Goldmine
Most people assume job searches stop when holiday lights go up - but that’s just not true. While everyone else slows down, hiring teams are still filling roles, budgets are being finalized, and end-of-year networking events are everywhere.
Think about it:
Less competition. While others hit pause, you can quietly stay top of mind.
Built-in networking. Holiday parties and messages are natural openings for reconnecting - no awkward small talk required.
Fresh perspective. The year’s end naturally brings reflection. You get to pause and ask, What’s next for me?
The key isn’t to push harder - it’s to be intentional.
Shift Your Mindset: Rest Is Part of Progress
This isn’t about working through your break or skipping family time to update your resume. It’s about light touches that keep you feeling confident and connected, even while you rest.
Try this:
Reflect on what worked (and didn’t) this year.
Make a short list of 3 goals or priorities for next year.
Send a quick “thinking of you” message to someone you value.
Those small moments matter. They create momentum without the grind.
And if you want a done-for-you plan with templates, prompts, and reflection questions - you’ll find them all in the Pause, Plan, Pivot guide.
Download it free here
Set Up Future You for a Win
Here’s the thing - January always feels like a fresh start, but the people who actually hit the ground running are the ones who did a little prep beforehand.
So instead of waiting for “New Year, New Me” motivation to strike, use the holidays to:
Get clear on what you want next (even if that’s not a new job).
Reconnect with mentors, peers, or colleagues who inspire you.
Rest enough that your creativity and energy come back online.
That’s what this season is really about - not just catching your breath, but setting your direction.
Your Next Step
If you’re ready to take the stress out of career planning this holiday season, my Pause, Plan, Pivot guide will walk you through how to:
Reflect on your year with clarity (not guilt)
Make progress toward your goals while still resting
Reconnect and network authentically - no awkward “asks” required
It’s short, actionable, and designed to help you start the new year grounded, focused, and re-energized.
Your career doesn’t have to go on pause - even if your out-of-office message is on.
Cheers to rest, reflection, and momentum.