After the New Year’s ball drops and the confetti settles, the resolution-making begins. While many resolutions are well intentioned (yes, kings and queens, eat those greens!), they often fall by the wayside after a few weeks. Change is hard, and without a to-do list, it’s easy to lose sight of your vision.

We don’t want you to waste another year putting yourself and your career last.

That’s why we’ve got a list of 25 things you can do in 2025 that have the potential to dramatically improve your professional life, your personal health and wellness, and even your community.

It starts with taking an honest look at your current reality:  

• Work Life: How is your career going? Do you feel fulfilled? Are you growing?
• Personal Life: Do you feel healthy and balanced? Do you take care of your needs when it matters?
• Relationships: Do you engage with others? Do you have a community?

Once you know the areas of your life that need the most work, you can prioritize the activities below according to your situation. 

How many of these ideas can you check off in 2025? Give it a shot and set yourself up for a GREAT future!

Professional Development

1. Set Specific Goals: Break down your career dreams into achievable steps that you can track.
2. Seek Feedback: Ask your customers for feedback on their experience and use it to improve your services.
3. Take a Haircutting Class: Find an online or in-person class to keep your work fresh and exciting.
4. Attend a Hair Show or Conference: Immerse yourself in the latest trends and gain inspiration from industry leaders.
5. Keep Your Workspace Clean: A neat and tidy workstation not only reassures your customers, it improves your workflow.
6. Experiment with Different Styles: Step outside your comfort zone and try new cutting techniques or styling approaches.
7. Invest in Quality Tools: High-quality tools can improve your efficiency and the quality of your work.
8. Join a Professional Organization: Network with other stylists and stay up to date on industry news.
9. Scope Out Celebrity Trends: Stay relevant and in-the-know on celebrity hair trends.
10. Learn from Other Professionals: Everyone has a different knowledge base, so why not ask a colleague for a few technical tips to build your skillset?
11. Develop Your Personal Brand: Create a strong personal brand to help others understand who you are and the unique value you offer in your role.

Personal Growth

12. Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep breathing to reduce stress and increase focus.
13. Prioritize Self-Care: Take time for yourself to recharge and avoid burnout.
14. Take a Break from Social Media: Stop the scroll and opt for a digital detox to ground yourself and remember what really matters.
15. Mentorship: Offer guidance and support to aspiring stylists or find a mentor for yourself.
16. Assess your priorities: Consider work-life balance. Are you spending time on the things that matter most to you?
17. Take a Vacation: Travel to a new destination and experience different cultures and styles.
18. Practice Gratitude: Focus on the positive aspects of your job and express gratitude for your customers and colleagues.
19. Seek Feedback: Ask your customers for feedback on their experience and use it to improve your services.
20. Celebrate Your Achievements: Acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how small, and reward yourself for your hard work.

Community & Connection

21. Connect with Other Stylists: Build relationships with other professionals in your field.
22. Give Back to the Community: Volunteer your time to a charity or organization that aligns with your values.
23. Start a Blog or Social Media Account: Share your knowledge and creativity with a wider audience.
24. Be Curious: Ask people meaningful questions and listen to their answers with empathy.
25. Have Fun: Enjoy the creative process and the satisfaction of making people feel confident!

Thinking about a new career for the new year? Great Clips salons are looking for talented stylists and barbers like you. Use our search tool to find open roles with a Great Clips franchisee in your area.

 

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All Great Clips® salons are independently owned and operated by third party franchisees. Franchisees, not Great Clips, Inc., are responsible for all hiring and personnel matters at their individual salons.