It’s that time of year – when we start thinking about what went well, what didn’t, and what we want to change. But before we dive into the full annual review later this month, I want to share a simple but powerful framework that will help make your reflection more meaningful (and actually useful).
The WRAP Method for Annual Reviews
You might know WRAP as a weekly review method, but it works just as well for annual review. You can read my 2024 WRAP here, but I wanted to share the process to help with your own annual review. Here’s how to use it to look back on your year and plan for 2025:
Wins
This is where we start – celebrating victories both big and small. Not just the obvious achievements, but all those small wins that add up over a year. Take time to acknowledge what went well before rushing to what needs to change!
Results
Here’s where we get concrete. Look at the actual outcomes of your goals and intentions from the past year. What habits did you build? Which projects did you complete? What metrics did you hit?
Alignment
This is the deeper work – reflecting on whether your actions and choices aligned with your values and long-term vision. Are you becoming the person you want to be? This isn’t about metrics – it’s about growth and authenticity. More to come on this personally in the full 2024 WRAP!
Pivot (or plan)
Now comes the action step. Based on your reflection, what needs to change or continue in 2025? Maybe you’ll adjust goals, change habits, or double down on what’s working well.
Use a Reporter’s Mindset
Here’s something crucial I’ve learned about annual reviews – you need to approach them like a reporter, not a judge. What’s the difference?
A reporter:
- Documents what happened without emotional labels
- Focuses on gathering information rather than criticism
- Asks “what” and “how” questions instead of dwelling on “why”
- Looks for patterns and trends rather than isolated incidents
This mindset helps you:
- Keep emotional distance from past events
- Learn from experiences without harsh self-judgment
- Make clearer decisions about future actions
- Build confidence through objective observation
By adopting a reporter’s mindset, you shift the perspective of your annual review from stressful self-judgment into useful fact-finding that sets you up for growth. This shift can be the difference between an annual review that drains you and one that energizes you for the year ahead.
Quick Tips for Your Review
- Block out dedicated time (1-2 hours minimum)
- Remember: you’re a reporter, not a judge
- Be honest about both wins and areas for growth
- Use your insights to create specific, actionable plans
Start thinking about your year through the WRAP lens. What wins come to mind first? What results did you achieve? Where did your actions align with your values? Make this an intentional focus and it will help you see your growth this year and opportunities in the year to come!
Want a better way to be productive and focused next year? Join Analog Action!
Double your productivity and focus your energy with simple pen and paper systems. Don’t let your apps become traps and get lost in notifications and busy work. Learn more and save $50 with code EARLY-ACTION through January 3rd!
