The clock is ticking—2025 is just approximately 970 hours away. How you use these remaining hours can define the trajectory of your career and personal growth in the coming year.

Someone recently asked me, “If I could invest in just one skill before 2025, what should it be?”
My answer? It’s not about just one skill—it’s about three critical areas that can transform your life and career.

Here’s how to make the most of these final hours of 2024:

1. Embrace AI to Boost Productivity

AI isn’t the future; it’s the now. In just a few hours, you can learn to leverage AI tools that will save you hundreds—if not thousands—of hours next year.

Think of tasks like managing emails, generating reports, crafting business strategies, or analyzing data. Tools like ChatGPT, Jasper, or Notion AI can streamline your workflows and supercharge your output.

Why this matters:
AI mastery will soon be as essential as knowing how to use Excel. The people who harness AI to their advantage will lead the way in productivity and innovation.

What to do now:

• Experiment with AI tools to understand their capabilities.
• Learn to craft effective prompts for better results.
• Incorporate AI into one of your daily workflows today.

2. Build Your Personal Brand Online

Your personal brand is your digital footprint, and it’s more powerful than you might realize. A strong online presence can open doors to new opportunities—whether it’s attracting clients, landing a dream role, or starting a business.

Why this matters:
Platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, or Instagram aren’t just for socializing; they’re powerful tools for networking, thought leadership, and audience building. A solid personal brand can make you a magnet for opportunities.

What to do now:

• Choose one platform and start posting consistently.
• Share lessons, experiences, or unique insights in your field.
• Engage with your audience—authentic connections are the key to growth.

Remember, your audience today could be your customers, employers, or collaborators tomorrow.

3. Master the Art of Persuasion

The ability to communicate effectively is a superpower. The most influential people aren’t always the smartest—they’re the ones who can tell a great story, ask the right questions, and truly listen.

Why this matters:
Persuasion isn’t just for salespeople; it’s for anyone who wants to lead, inspire, or create change. By mastering this skill, you can build trust, influence decisions, and connect with others on a deeper level.

What to do now:

• Practice storytelling—share a moment that inspired you.
• Focus on understanding others’ perspectives and pain points.
• Learn to frame your ideas in ways that resonate with your audience.

Charisma isn’t about being interesting; it’s about being interested.

A Plan for the Next 970 Hours

If you want to kickstart your mastery in these three areas, here’s how you can get started right away:

1. Dedicate 2 hours to exploring AI tools and learning to integrate them into your workflows.
2. Spend 1 hour drafting your first social media post or refining your personal brand strategy.
3. Use 1 hour to study storytelling and communication techniques.

That’s just 4 hours, leaving you with over 960 hours to practice and refine these skills before the new year.

Why Now Is the Best Time to Start

The beauty of these three areas—AI, personal branding, and persuasion—is that they’re universal and timeless. They don’t just prepare you for 2025; they set the foundation for years of growth and success.

Don’t wait for the calendar to turn. The next 970 hours are a gift—a chance to step ahead while others are waiting for January to start.

The question is: How will you use them?

Let me know in the comments—what’s your first move? I’d love to hear how you plan to make the most of these hours!