10 Powerful Questions to Start 2026 With

The start of a new year often comes with pressure.

Set goals.

Make resolutions.

Become a better version of yourself.

But in my coaching work, I see something different play out again and again:

Most people don’t fail because they lack effort.

They struggle because they’re putting energy in the wrong direction.

That’s why, instead of goals or resolutions, I’m starting 2026 with questions.

Questions create space.

Questions invite honesty.

Questions help you pause long enough to notice what actually matters.

Below are the 10 questions I’m holding for myself as I step into 2026, and the same ones I often explore with the people I coach.

1. What do I need to stop doing this year?

Growth isn’t only about adding more. Often, real progress starts with subtraction.

This question invites you to notice habits, commitments, or expectations that no longer serve you, even if they once did.

2. What will actually matter when this year is over?

Instead of reacting to what feels urgent, this question zooms out.

When you look back on 2026, what do you want to feel proud of? What do you want to remember?

3. Where am I wasting energy?

Energy is one of our most limited resources.

This question helps you spot where your time, attention, or emotional effort is being drained without meaningful return.

4. What am I avoiding because it feels uncomfortable?

Avoidance often hides important information.

This question gently points toward conversations, decisions, or changes you may already know are needed but haven’t named yet.

5. What do I want more of this year?

Not what you should want.

What do you genuinely want more of in your work, relationships, health, or inner life?

If you’re curious about how powerful questions shape meaningful change, you might also enjoy reading:

• Your Brain Is Lying to You: Why Perception Shapes Coaching and Leadership Conversations

• 6 Proven Coaching Tools to Get Unstuck and Regain Clarity

  
  

6. What does success really mean for me in 2026?

Success is deeply personal, yet many people borrow definitions without realizing it.

This question invites you to redefine success on your own terms, not someone else’s expectations.

7. What would I do if I trusted myself more?

Lack of clarity is often less about not knowing — and more about not trusting what you already know.

This question opens space for intuition, confidence, and self-belief.

If this question resonates, you may also want to explore how trust and awareness show up in leadership and coaching conversations in Vulnerability in Conversations.

8. What needs to change for me to feel aligned?

Alignment isn’t about perfection.

It’s about noticing where your values, actions, and priorities are out of sync — and what small shifts could bring them closer together.

9. What am I ready to let go of?

Letting go can mean releasing old roles, stories, identities, or expectations.

This question honors the idea that growth sometimes means loosening your grip.

10. Who do I choose to be this year?

This is less about outcomes and more about identity.

Who you choose to be shapes how you respond, decide, and show up long before results appear.

If you’re honest with yourself, what’s next?

If you’re noticing that questions like these open something deeper for you, you’re not alone.

Many people come to coaching not because they need answers, but because they want space to think more clearly, honestly, and intentionally.

You’re welcome to:

• Explore our ICF‑accredited coach training programs, if you’re feeling drawn to coaching as a skill or profession.

• Join one of our upcoming free masterclasses, where we explore real coaching conversations and tools in action.

  
  

Powerful questions are to invoke reflections, not to seek a definite answer

There’s no pressure to answer all of these.

No “new year, new me.”

You might sit with just one question.

You might return to it throughout the year.

If one of these questions made you pause, stay with it a little longer.

And if you’d like support exploring questions like these in a structured, reflective way, this is the kind of work I do through coaching.

Sometimes, the most meaningful change doesn’t start with a plan.

It starts with an honest question and the willingness to sit with it.

If one question from this list stayed with you, consider letting it guide your next conversation, your next decision, or your next step.

The Importance of Reflection in Coaching

Reflection is a powerful tool in coaching. It allows us to step back and assess our thoughts and feelings. When we reflect, we gain clarity. We can see patterns in our behavior and understand what drives us. This understanding is crucial for growth.

As coaches, we often guide our clients through this reflective process. We ask questions that prompt deeper thinking. This helps clients uncover insights about themselves. It’s amazing how a simple question can lead to profound realizations!

Creating a Supportive Environment

Creating a safe space for reflection is essential. Clients need to feel comfortable sharing their thoughts. This is where trust comes into play. When clients trust their coach, they are more likely to open up. They feel free to explore their feelings without judgment.

In my experience, the best coaching happens in a supportive environment. Clients thrive when they know their coach is there to listen and support them. This is why building rapport is so important.

The Role of Accountability

Accountability is another key aspect of coaching. When clients set goals, they often need support to stay on track. This is where a coach can help. By checking in regularly, coaches can help clients stay focused on their goals. This accountability can make a significant difference in achieving success.

Embracing Change

Change can be daunting. Many people resist it, fearing the unknown. However, change is often necessary for growth. As coaches, we can help clients embrace change. We can guide them through the process, helping them see the benefits of stepping out of their comfort zones.

Conclusion: The Journey Ahead

As we step into 2026, let’s remember the power of questions. Let’s embrace the journey ahead with curiosity and openness. The questions we ask ourselves can lead to incredible insights. They can help us grow, evolve, and become the best versions of ourselves.

So, what questions will you carry with you into the new year? Let’s make this year one of reflection, growth, and transformation!