In this month’s Careers Clinic, we’re handing over to Jemma Davies, Consultant at Realm Recruit and specialist in recruiting litigation lawyers across the North West.
She’s answering a question from a lawyer who’s content in their current role but wants to use the end of the year to reset, refocus, and make sure they’re heading into 2026 with clear goals and direction.
“I’m not looking to move firms right now – I’m happy where I am – but I’d still like to feel more proactive and in control of my career.
As we head into a new year, what can I do to check in with myself and set myself up for a successful 2026?”
First of all, it’s brilliant that you’re thinking like this.
You don’t have to be planning a move to benefit from a career check-in. In fact, some of the most successful and fulfilled lawyers I speak to are the ones who regularly reflect on where they’re at and make small adjustments to stay aligned with their goals.
If you’re in a good place but want to keep progressing, here are five simple ways to close out 2025 feeling focused – and start 2026 with clarity and momentum.
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Reflect On Your Year
Take some quiet time in December to ask yourself:
- What achievements am I most proud of this year?
- What felt frustrating, draining, or unfulfilling?
- When did I feel most energised in my role?
- Have I grown – personally and professionally – over the last 12 months?
This isn’t about judging yourself. It’s about noticing what’s working and what might need a tweak so that next year builds on your successes.
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Set Meaningful Goals
You don’t need a five-year plan, but setting a few small but meaningful goals can help you feel more purposeful at work.
Ask yourself:
- Is there a skill I want to develop?
- Do I want more involvement in business development, mentoring or firm strategy?
- Is there a particular type of case or client I’d like to work with more?
- How do I want to feel about my career at the end of 2026?
Once you know what you’re aiming for, you can start taking small steps in the right direction.
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Check In on Your Development Plan
If your firm offers appraisals or personal development plans, review yours before the new year.
- Are your objectives still relevant?
- Could you propose new goals based on your reflection?
- Have you recorded achievements you’d like recognised?
It’s much easier to advocate for progression, flexibility or new responsibilities when you’ve already done the thinking in advance.
💬 4. Reconnect With Your Network
December is a great time to check in with colleagues, mentors or peers you might not have spoken to in a while.
Reaching out can:
- Reignite old professional relationships
- Help you stay visible across your firm
- Open doors to new ideas, projects or secondments
A quick coffee, a LinkedIn message, or even just a festive catch-up can plant the seed for exciting opportunities next year.
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Take a Proper Break
Don’t underestimate the importance of rest.
Even if you’re not actively seeking change, switching off properly over Christmas can give you the space to come back in January feeling more clear-headed, motivated and open to new ideas.
When you’re in the thick of your caseload, it’s hard to zoom out. A proper reset gives you perspective – and often a better sense of what matters most to you in your career.
Staying in the same role doesn’t mean standing still. You can grow, stretch and shape your career within your current firm, as long as you’re checking in regularly and making conscious decisions about what you want next.
If you’re curious about how your experience and salary compare in the wider market, or just want to explore what’s possible longer-term, I’m always here for a no-pressure chat.
Get in touch our specialist team via this website or give us a call on 03300 245 606.
You can also take our Career Clarity Quiz – it’s a simple tool to help you reflect on where you are now and what you want next.
Here’s to a more intentional, rewarding 2026.
