Start the Year Strong with a Quick Review and Goal-Setting
As the calendar turns to a new year, many of us think about fresh starts and goal-setting. For federal employees, the beginning of the year is also a great time to take stock of your benefits, plan for your health and well-being, and set yourself up for a smoother year ahead in federal service.
By taking a few intentional steps early, you can make the most of the benefits you already have, avoid surprises later, and build a practical plan that supports your everyday life, both at work and beyond.
1. Review Your Health and Benefits Coverage
Whether you’re happy with your current FEHB plan or thinking about changes next open season, now is a perfect time to refresh yourself on what your coverage includes.
- Check preventive care benefits. Many plans offer annual screenings and check-ups at no additional cost. These can catch small issues before they grow bigger.
- Review specialist access and referrals. If you saw specialists last year, confirm whether you need updated referrals or pre-authorizations.
- Update your contact info. Make sure your address and email are current so you get all benefit notices and statements.
A quick visit to your benefits portal or a chat with your plan representative can clarify what’s new or what you might have missed last season.
2. Take Stock of Your Leave and Time Off
Federal employees earn annual and sick leave that can quickly add up. Rather than letting hours go unused or catching yourself short later:
- Look at your current leave balances. Make a plan to use leave before it expires or think about how you might save some for unexpected needs.
- Plan ahead for major appointments. Blocking out time early for doctor visits, dental check-ups, or therapy can help ensure better availability.
- Consider wellness days. Taking a day to recharge isn’t just a luxury! It can prevent burnout and keep you productive all year long. If you have the leave available, consider earmarking a day or two on the calendar to rest and reset.
3. Boost Your Financial Organization
Financial wellness and benefits go hand in hand. A restart in January gives you time to organize your accounts and plan ahead.
- Check your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions. Are you on track with your goals? Small adjustments now can make a big difference over time.
- Review your FSA/HSA contributions. Use what you need before year-end deadlines, and plan how much to set aside this year.
- Refresh important documents. Update beneficiaries, password lists, and financial records so you’re prepared if you need them.
Additionally, setting a budget (to account for travel, education, or health care) or updating it can help you anticipate costs and reduce last-minute stress. For budgeting tips, check out this article from Nerdwallet on how to budget money in 5 steps.
If you’re feeling ambitious, take a deeper dive to ensure your 14 Essential Financial Documents are up-to-date.
4. Set Practical Goals for Health and Wellness
Your personal well-being matters just as much as benefits and budgets. Resolutions can end up feeling overwhelming, so try incorporating a few realistic, meaningful goals that actually fit your lifestyle.
- Schedule preventive care. If you haven’t had an annual check-up or blood work, now is a great time to book it.
- Build tiny habits. Walking meetings, hydration reminders, or short stretches in your workspace can improve daily health without draining your schedule.
- Prioritize sleep and stress management. Better rest and mindful breaks can boost focus and reduce fatigue on tough workdays.
Steady small wins often lead to bigger, sustainable changes over the year.
Final Thoughts
Starting the year by taking stock of your benefits and well-being is both smart, and empowering, planning. By checking in with your coverage, organizing your finances, planning your time off, and setting manageable wellness goals, you’re setting yourself up for a year that’s both productive and balanced.
Remember, the benefits you’ve earned as a federal employee are there to support you, and a little attention now can make them work even harder for you throughout the year!
This article is intended to inform and inspire; it’s always a good idea to check with your agency’s human resources office or benefits provider for specific questions about your coverage.
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