It’s already 2026, and we’re at the end of January! This first month has flown by.

Whether you’re the kind of person who eases into the new year or someone who thoughtfully sets resolutions and goals, one thing is certain: most of us are back at work.

As I write this, I’m on my way to a client for a one-day workshop on career planning and management - based on my years as a career coach and the workbook I released last year, The Real You @ Work. What a great way to kick off the year!

I want to wish my clients, friends, family - and new friends yet to be made - more happiness in 2026. One way I can contribute is by helping people find more satisfaction in something most of us spend a lot of time doing: work.

So, to start the year off strong, here’s a career planning and management tip.

Here’s Your Coaching Tip

As you go about your day, tune in to the activities that feel most satisfying - and document them.

Over many years of career coaching, I’ve learned that a lot of people can’t clearly name what’s satisfying about their work. That lack of awareness can lead to lower motivation, less interest, and sometimes a drop in the quality of work.

Often, the solution is simpler than it sounds: slow down a bit. Pay attention to what you’re doing, how you’re doing it, and the level of satisfaction you’re experiencing as you do it.

This is a critical piece of career planning and management. It can inform decisions that move you closer to a more fulfilling work life.

And if you’re a manager, this practice can be valuable not only for you - but for your team as well.

Bonus tip for managers: Survey your team and ask, “Which aspects of your work are most satisfying?”​
​Why it helps: You learn more about what energizes your people - and it prompts them to tune in to their own motivation, which often strengthens engagement.

This year, I don’t want you singing the Rolling Stones: “I can’t get no satisfaction.” My hope is that you experience more satisfaction in your work - and that it leads to greater happiness.

Special Announcement

I’ve taken my own advice - and made a decision that’s shaping my next chapter. I’m delaying retirement so I can fine-tune how I help develop leaders. I’m calling this new initiative Leadership, Lived. Learn more here. If you’re looking for a fresh approach to leadership training, you’ll want to check it out. You're also getting a front-row seat to my new program since you're a member of my twice-a-month newsletter. The Distinct Leader has evolved into Leadership, Lived.

News to Know

Last fall, I released two new LinkedIn Learning courses, and they’re already getting rave reviews:

• ​Talent Management for Managers​
• ​Building Future Leaders for Managers​

Also, I plan to publish this e-coach twice a month going forward - more consistently.

Upcoming themes include:

• Using intuition in decision-making
• The role of wisdom in leadership

Let’s have a great 2026 as we continue to learn and grow together.

Prefer to listen rather than read? These e-coaches (and more) are also available on my podcast, Leadership, Lived - on iTunes, Audible, and Spotify. I consider them “micro-podcasts” because they’re generally 10 minutes or less - an easy way to learn on the go and grow as you go.

Best,

JoAnn Corley
​Leadership Development Specialist
​joanncorley.com​

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