Why I Do a Year-End Review Every Year
Every year, I sit down and do something that has become non-negotiable for a year-end review. It’s not fancy. It’s not complicated. But it’s powerful./
This time of reflection allows me to slow down and really look at the year—what happened, what I learned, what I did well, and where I need to grow. Reflection matters because it helps us make sense of life. It sharpens our thinking and keeps us grounded.
The Bible reminds us of this in Lamentations 3:40:
“Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.”
John Maxwell says reflection is looking back and learning to pause so you can catch up. That idea has stayed with me for years—and every time I do this review, I’m reminded why.
The Biggest Lesson 2025 Taught Me
If 2025 taught me anything, it’s this: when you put your mind to something, and stay committed, you can accomplish more than you think.
This year, Creative Feeds won Best of Las Vegas. That wasn’t easy. It’s a tough category, and the competition is real. What made it special is that it came from our customers. They believed in us. They voted for us. And that meant everything.
Scripture says in Galatians 6:9:
“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
That verse sums it up perfectly.
Another powerful lesson came from watching my wife’s determination. She stayed focused and committed to helping her son Austin get off the streets, out of a program, and into his own place with his own income. Despite setbacks and emotional challenges, she didn’t quit. That kind of grit is inspiring—and it reminded me what perseverance really looks like.
The Areas That Stretched Me the Most
I’ll be honest—relationships, especially family, stretched me the most this year.
We held a family reunion, spending thousands of dollars to bring everyone together. Family is important, but the connection and fellowship we hoped for just wasn’t there. That was hard.
On top of that, walking alongside a child dealing with mental illness is heartbreaking. It brings frustration, anger, and deep emotional weight. Yet even in that, I’m reminded of Psalm 34:18:
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Giving back was another challenge. I sometimes wonder if today’s youth are even ready to receive guidance. This generation faces so much, and it can feel like your efforts don’t make a difference. Still, Isaiah 55:11 reminds me that seeds planted don’t return empty—even if the results come later.
How Reflection Changed My Thinking
One clear example of reflection at work in my life is my growth in studying the Word of God. As I’ve gone deeper into the Bible, my thinking has matured. My perspective has changed. My decision-making has improved.
Proverbs 4:7 says:
“The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”
Reflection has taught me to rely less on myself and more on God. It’s helped me understand that we are just travelers in this life—but we are called to be overcomers.
The People Who Influenced Me Most
I’ve been influenced by many people—some through books, some through teachings, and some who are no longer with us. But one of my greatest influences continues to be my wife. Her strength, discipline, and unwavering commitment to family show me what real leadership and love look like.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As I step into 2026, I’m setting intentional goals:
- Go deeper in Bible study, including exploring the Ethiopian Bible to better understand Jesus, the prophets, and biblical history.
- Build wealth with clarity and discipline, using what 2025 taught me as a foundation.
- Write the book I’ve been carrying for years—2026 is the year it gets done.
Habakkuk 2:2 puts it best:
“Write the vision and make it plain.”
A Call to Action: Your Turn
Now let me ask you—when was the last time you truly reflected on your life?
I encourage you to set aside time to do your own year-end review. It doesn’t have to look like mine, but it should be honest.
Start with these five areas if you’d like:
- Spiritual life
- Relationships
- Physical health
- Personal and professional growth
- Giving back
Ask yourself:
- What did I learn this year?
- Where did I grow?
- Where do I need to change?
- What is God calling me to focus on next?
Reflection brings clarity. Clarity brings direction. Direction changes lives.
I’ve been doing this for over 10 years, and it has helped shape who I am today. I believe it can do the same for you.
I wish you a purposeful, prosperous, and powerful 2026.
— Dr. D
Carolyle Destiny Group