Questions to Align Your Career Goals for 2026 | Year-End Planning for Leaders

As the year winds down, it's time to pause and reflect on what's working and what needs to change. In this episode of The Career Refresh, executive coach Jill Griffin guides you through powerful questions designed to help you realign your career, sharpen your leadership, and set yourself up for success in 2026.These aren't surface-level questions, they're the kind that make you stop, think, and confront what you've been avoiding. From identifying the one change that could create a ripple effect across your life to auditing your habits like a CEO, this episode will help you cut through the noise and focus on what truly matters.In this episode, you'll explore:What would create the biggest ripple effect if you improved it in 2026How to identify what's no longer worth defending in your career or lifeWhether your daily habits actually align with the results you wantThe difference between real progress and just staying busyWhat a competent CEO would immediately eliminate from your scheduleHow to calculate the hidden cost of inactionSmall, intentional steps you can take now to get ahead in the new yearWhether you're a senior leader, emerging executive, or professional ready for your next chapter, this episode offers the clarity and framework you need to end the year with intention,and start 2026 with momentum.Perfect for: Leaders, executives, coaches, and ambitious professionals navigating career transitions, strategic planning, or personal leadership development.Grab your journal, press play, and let's rethink your next chapter together.Support the showJill Griffin, is a leadership and career strategist, executive coach, and host of The Career Refresh podcast. She works with high achievers to strengthen their leadership, navigate career transitions, build effective teams, and create what’s next.With 20+ years of experience at companies like Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Hilton, and Martha Stewart, Jill brings a practical, real-world lens to leadership, decision-making, and career strategy. Visit GriffinMethod.com to learn more about working together:The Next Era Leader An 12-week cohort for women leaders ready to expand their capacity and lead through complexity with clarity and intentionExecutive Coaching & Leadership Advisory 1:1 strategic partnership for leaders navigating growth, transition, and what’s nextConnect with Jill for Leadership Development for Organizations and Speaking & WorkshopsInstagram: @JillGriffinOffical