What to Do with Last Year’s OKRs as the New Year Begins

Too often, they’re forgotten—or worse, they drag your team down. But ignoring last year’s OKRs could set your team up for failure this year. Reflection and recalibration are the keys to turning last year’s goals into stepping stones for the future.

This reminds me of a moment with my son, whose North Star last year was to earn his black belt by the time he turns 14. To achieve this, he’s mapped out a plan: advancing belt levels every three months. Each promotion requires hitting attendance goals, mastering forms, instructing others, and understanding technical terms.

When we missed two weeks of classes, it could have derailed his progress. But instead, he sat down at the kitchen table, determined to find a way forward. With his schedule in hand, he recalibrated his plan: more classes, private lessons, and a renewed commitment to his goal.

Much like my son’s plan to reach his black belt, OKRs act as a team’s North Star. They illuminate the path forward, helping leaders navigate uncertainty and stay focused on what truly matters. It was a powerful reminder that setbacks don’t derail a mission when you have a North Star.

For leaders, this lesson is crucial. Reflecting on last year’s OKRs isn’t just about the past; it’s the key to unlocking clarity, alignment, and impact in the year ahead. Here’s how to make the most of your old OKRs while setting a strong foundation for new ones:

Step 1: Reflect on the Past Year’s OKRs

The biggest mistake leaders make with OKRs? Thinking they’re “set it and forget it.” Reflection is the secret to transformation. Take the time to review last year’s OKRs. Ask yourself and your team:

• What worked well? Which Objectives were fully met or exceeded? What drove that success?
• What didn’t work? Where did the team fall short, and why? Were the Key Results too ambitious, or were resources misaligned?
• What surprised you? Did any unexpected outcomes highlight strengths or gaps you hadn’t considered?

Without reflection, last year’s goals become dead weight—dragging your team down instead of propelling them forward. Celebrate wins and uncover lessons to carry forward.

Step 2: Decide What to Keep, Adapt, or Leave Behind

Not every goal or Key Result from last year will remain relevant in the new year. Here’s how to evaluate them:

• Keep: Retain Objectives that remain aligned with your long-term mission and require continued focus.
• Adapt: Adjust Key Results or timelines for goals that are still important but need recalibration based on last year’s insights.
• Leave Behind: Let go of Objectives that no longer serve your team or organization’s evolving priorities.

For example, if a startup set an Objective to develop into five new regions but only launched in two, it might adjust the timeline for the remaining regions while refining its approach based on initial learnings.

Step 3: Use Insights to Set Fresh OKRs

Reflecting on the past isn’t just a retrospective exercise—it’s the foundation for transformation. Use the insights you’ve gained to craft new Objectives and Key Results that:

• Align with your North Star: Each Objective should support your organization’s long-term vision and mission.
• Incorporate lessons learned: Apply what worked well last year and address areas for improvement.
• Balance continuity and innovation: Strike a balance between building on existing momentum and pursuing new opportunities.

What’s your plan for old goals—bury them, revive them, or rebuild them?

Step 4: Create a Review Cadence

One of the biggest pitfalls with OKRs is setting them and then forgetting them. Establish a rhythm for regular check-ins:

• Monthly Reviews: Assess progress toward Key Results and address blockers.
• Quarterly Retrospectives: Dive deeper into what’s working and recalibrate as needed.

This cadence keeps your team aligned and ensures that OKRs remain a dynamic tool for growth—not static goals gathering dust.

Step 5: Celebrate Achievements Along the Way

Big goals are rarely achieved in one leap. They’re the product of consistent effort and celebrating milestones along the way. Recognize your team’s progress, whether it’s hitting a Key Result, overcoming a major challenge, or simply staying aligned with your North Star.

Closing Reflection

Reflecting on last year’s OKRs isn’t just about the past; it’s the key to unlocking clarity, alignment, and impact in the year ahead. As you move into the new year, ask yourself: How do you ensure your OKRs evolve with your team and organization’s needs?

When the calendar flips, don’t let your uncompleted OKRs drag you down. By recalibrating where necessary and setting fresh, aligned goals, you can keep your team moving forward with purpose.

Clear the frost, find your fire, and let your North Star guide the way.