Halfway There: A Fresh Start in Q3, Powered by Birkman Insights

Can you believe it? We’ve officially crossed the halfway mark of the year. Whether you’re making plans for the Fourth or wrapping up June’s paperwork, Q3 is here—and it’s offering us a clean slate.

It’s tempting to look back and focus on what didn’t get done in the first half of the year, but let’s shift gears. What if we saw July not as a “midpoint,” but as a new beginning? Six whole months are ahead of us. That’s time for a career move, a passion project, a new habit, or finally saying no to things that drain us.

Start with You: What Do You Really Want to Accomplish?

Here’s the trick, though: your Q3-Q4 goals shouldn’t be built on someone else’s blueprint. They should align with your natural strengths and—this is where Birkman comes in—your Needs.

The Birkman Method teaches us that it’s not just about what we do, but what we need in our environment to do it well. Our underlying Needs—the conditions we require to stay energized and productive—color everything from how we set goals to how we follow through.

Here are a few thoughts based on different Birkman Needs:

If You Thrive on Structure...

You probably want clarity, deadlines, and a well-planned path forward. Now’s the perfect time to revisit your calendar and map out what “success” looks like by December 31. Set up mini check-ins for yourself each month. You’ll gain a sense of control—and satisfaction—by watching your progress unfold.

If You Crave Flexibility...

Rigid planning might make you feel boxed in. Instead, build in room for creativity and spontaneity. You may not need a spreadsheet to track every action, but setting an intention for each month (“This is my exploration month, this is my shipping month…”) can help keep you engaged and aligned without feeling restricted.

If You Need Affirmation...

Don’t go it alone in the second half. Surround yourself with people who cheer you on. Share your goals with a colleague, coach, or friend—someone who reflects your values and reminds you how far you’ve come. You’ll likely reach your goals faster with positive energy in your corner.

If You Prefer Independence...

You may feel most productive when you can set your own course. Q3 is a great time to carve out solo space—maybe an early morning power hour or a weekly “think day” to tackle your biggest ideas without interruption. Give yourself the gift of autonomy and watch your best thinking emerge.

If You Want Harmony...

Maybe your goals aren’t just personal—they’re relational. Ask yourself: What relationships do I want to improve or invest in before the year ends? Whether it’s your team, your family, or even yourself, focus on restoring balance and building meaningful connections.

A Personal Reset Button

Half the year is still ahead of us. That’s 183 days—or over 4,300 hours. Imagine what you could create, change, or release by then.

Take a few minutes this week to pause and reflect:

• What have I learned about myself so far this year?

• What do I need to finish strong?

• What’s one goal that truly energizes me?

Let the answers guide you, not just your calendar.

Final Thought

As you step into the next half of the year, don’t just set goals. Set them your way. Colored by your Needs. Fueled by your Strengths. And rooted in what makes you uniquely you.

Here’s to a purposeful and personalized second half of the year. Let’s make it count.