As the year winds down, you might find yourself focusing on what’s left undone. You may ask yourself, “Did I check every box? Did I achieve everything I set out to do? It’s tempting to evaluate your year solely by these  “yes or no” measures. But what if you looked at it differently? Instead of focusing solely on what’s unfinished, could  you celebrate the process and recognize your shining moments—those times when you truly stepped into your best self?

Think of Rocky, the iconic 1976 movie. It wasn’t just about the final fight outcome—it was about everything that led up to it. The grueling training, the sweat, the determination, and the growth Rocky experienced along the way defined his story. Like Rocky, you’re a work in progress, building for a purpose. Those small victories, those moments of connection or triumph, are what make your journey special. They remind you that who you’re becoming is just as important as where you’re going.

Celebrate Your Shining Moments

Reflection isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Your shining moments are moments that matter in your journey. They’re the experiences that showcase your growth, connection, and ability to make an impact. Reflecting on them provides clarity about what energizes and motivates you—and fuels your tank with possibility. And possibility? That’s the foundation of THRIVE.

The Shining Moments Worksheet is your guide to uncovering these standout experiences. As you reflect, consider the following categories from the worksheet:

Effect change -  When did you make a meaningful difference? What was your role in making an impact --- for the moment, team or organization?  Why was it important? How did it make you feel?

Your work – What were the skills, job functions, collaboration, or the work environment that enabled your success? What promoted your THRIVE?

Learning – What new perspectives, motivation, or personal growth emerged from the shining moment? How did this add to your sense of possibility and potential?

THRIVE @ Work – What made the moment, accomplishment or situation special or unique? What would you like to recreate next year?

Think broadly including both big wins and small moments. Reflect on what made each experience unique and consider how to recreate that energy in the year ahead.

A Story of Progress

Each shining moment is a step in your journey. Like Rocky, focus on the process rather than some arbitrary external measure or single outcome. Rocky’s iconic training montage, set to “Gonna Fly Now”, isn’t just about physical strength—it’s about his transformation as a person. Every step, every punch, and every challenge is part of his growth.

Think about your own year. Like Rocky, maybe you:

Overcame Self-Doubt:

Early in the film, Rocky struggles with his confidence. He’s reluctant to believe he’s worthy of fighting Apollo Creed. However, his mentor, Mickey, helps him confront his fears, teaching you that even small steps toward believing in yourself can be transformative.

Built Stronger Connections:
Rocky’s relationship with Adrian grows throughout the movie, showing the importance of trust and support in moments of vulnerability. Adrian becomes his emotional anchor, reminding you how vital it is to nurture connections that fuel your strength.

Implemented New Ideas:
Rocky’s unorthodox training methods, like punching meat in a freezer, became a hallmark of his determination. These moments demonstrate the creativity and resourcefulness needed to tackle challenges and achieve growth.

Found Strength in Challenges:
The night before the fight, Rocky acknowledges he may not win. Yet, he resolves to “go the distance,” showing that the effort and persistence to endure define success as much as outcomes do.

Shining moments are reminders that you’re not defined solely by achievements but by the journey—the intention, connection, growth and resilience that shape who you are becoming.

Celebrate and Fuel Your Tank

Share your shining moments with mentors, colleagues, friends or family and gain fresh insights into your growth. Writing them down creates a source of inspiration for times when possibility feels out of reach. Use these reflections to set intentions for the year ahead, shaping your path toward more THRIVE moments at work.

Embrace the Work in Progress

To THRIVE is to grow – growth means change, reflection, and connection. Shining moments remind you to celebrate who you are and who you’re becoming. They show the power of the process, just as Rocky demonstrated, and reveal that progress is the victory. Take time today to reflect on your year, celebrate your shining moments, and embrace the gifts you are sharing with the world.

Download the Year End Shining Moments worksheet  to reflect and celebrate your year.