This article first appeared in Investment Week, 3rd February, 2020

It is the time of the year when we are bombarded with newsletters, social media posts and emails waxing lyrical about everyone's 2020 vision.

But there really is something in thinking about what we need to do to help ourselves feel fulfilled, motivated and challenged as we move forward. To take stock of where we are professionally, what we have achieved over the last 12 months and what we are aiming for over the next 12.

It can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the decade that lies ahead of us. We often need to make changes to get hold of the things we want, and the temptation can be to charge straight at these to feel like we are moving forward.

But take a moment to slow down and think about the difference some of the little things can make.

I have put together a list of some of the things you can do to help navigate the new decade with more clarity, drive and positivity.

Let it go

It is normal to feel irritated, frustrated or even overly focused on the things that did not quite go your way last year. Contrary to everyone's seemingly picture-perfect Instagram profiles, it has been a tough year for many of us.

So rather than keeping it all in, let it all go. Vent to your friends, family and others who will listen.

Get it all out, so your frustrations are in the rear-view mirror and are focused on looking forward rather than over your shoulder.

Focus on the good

Instead of thinking about things that have not worked out, look at what has gone well. Think about your achievements, both big and small, personal and professional and make a note of them.

Not only will this be useful for your end-of-year appraisal (yep, it is coming), it is also a great chance for you to think about all the good things about your firm and job.

Be thankful

Unexpected gratitude is one of the biggest workplace boosts you can give to someone. So why not remember how your colleagues have helped you and say thank you?

It really could make a world of difference.

Be crystal clear

What do you need to succeed? Can you do it alone, or do you need investing in or support?

Draw up a plan of action with targets. This can be as small as just booking a meeting or finding ways to keep staying positive, happy and motivated.

Little things make a difference

Instead of only focusing on the huge things you want to overhaul, think about the small, practical ways that you can make changes.

Big change rarely happens overnight, but giving yourself smaller goals can help everything seem that bit more achievable and keep you motivated and focused.