Advice from CEOs on starting the year with focus
The start of a new year is exhilarating - but let’s face it, it’s also stressful.
CEOs and their teams are pulled in two directions: strategically working on the business, driving the long-term strategy and tactically working in the business, managing the ‘grind’.
Many of the CEOs in our Purpose-Led CEO Interview Series commented on how they manage this balance and stay focused on work that drives impact. Here is what we learned during these interviews, as well as from other leadership gurus.
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Top 5 Tips
1. Stay focused on your purpose and your goals
What does success look like for your organization at the end of this year? Steven Covey’s advice from his iconic book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – tells us to begin with the end in mind. This remains incredibly relevant. Define your big-picture goals, not just for yourself but for your team. Nisha Anand, CEO of Dream.Org, does this brilliantly. At the start of each year, she asks her leadership team to answer two questions: “What is my role? And What are my goals?” This shared clarity ensures that every decision - strategic or operational - aligns with the larger vision.
2. Focus on Your “Rocks” and Make the Most out of Your Meetings
Research from Harvard Business Review shows that CEOs spend 72% of their time in meetings, yet many aren’t effective. Here’s the fix: align your meetings with your priorities (your Rocks). Use short, tactical check-ins for day-to-day updates, and reserve dedicated time for strategic discussions. Bite Body’s Jaime Hackett and Erin Prohaska start every week by categorizing their work into three buckets: 1) Strategic priorities that drive the business forward. 2) Day-to-day tasks that must get done. 3) Personal refresh to maintain balance. This intentional structure keeps their time aligned with their vision while allowing space for well-being.
3. Tap into the Power of Delegation
Melissa From, CEO of Calgary Food Bank, shared a valuable lesson from her mentor: when the workload gets overwhelming, list everything on your plate and pinpoint what only you can do. Delegate the rest. This approach not only lightens your load but also builds a stronger team. By delegating, you free yourself to focus on strategy while empowering others to grow. Remember, doing it all yourself doesn’t just burn you out—it limits your team’s potential. Effective leaders know when to let go.
4. Track Progress with Data
If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. Regularly tracking key metrics keeps you grounded in reality. Jennifer Jones, a purpose-driven leader, puts it perfectly: “You can’t lead with purpose if you’re not meeting financial objectives. Aligning impact and results is critical.” Think of data as your GPS - it won’t eliminate detours, but it will help you course-correct before small issues snowball into big problems.
5. Stay Close to the Frontline
Lastly, never lose sight of the people and mission you’re leading. Tonie Chaltas, CEO of Achēv, makes it a priority to stay connected. She meets with staff in small groups twice a year, hosts regular town halls, and even holds “Ask Me Anything” sessions. This keeps her grounded, aligns her team, and ensures the organization’s mission stays front and centre.
The start of the year is your chance to start fresh and set the tone - not just for yourself, but for your entire organization. Focus on what matters, communicate openly, and stay adaptable. CEOs don’t just manage companies; they shape futures. Let’s make 2025 the most impactful year yet!
Drop your thoughts in the comments - we’d love to hear how you’re starting strong.
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