Tim Ferriss Past Year Review (PYR): A Simple 30-Minute Annual Reflection Method

Tim Ferriss's Past Year Review (PYR) is a refreshingly simple approach to annual reflection. While many year-end reviews can feel overwhelming with their extensive prompts and multi-hour time commitments, the PYR method cuts through the complexity with a focused, calendar-based approach that can be completed in 30-60 minutes.

The method was born from Ferriss's realization that traditional goal-setting often fails because it's based on assumptions rather than data. Instead of imagining what might make you happy, the PYR uses your actual calendar as evidence of what activities and people genuinely energized or drained you over the past year.

What is Past Year Review (PYR)?

The Past Year Review is a data-driven reflection method that uses your calendar as the primary source of insight. Rather than relying on memory or assumptions, you systematically review each week of the past year to identify patterns in what brought you energy and what depleted it.

Tim Ferriss developed this method as an alternative to traditional New Year's resolutions, which he found often failed because they were based on "shoulds" rather than evidence. The PYR flips this by starting with what actually happened and using that data to inform future decisions.

How to Use Past Year Review (PYR)

Pull up your calendar for the past year (digital calendars work best for this)

Go through week by week and note the people and activities that appear

Create two columns: POSITIVE (peak experiences, energizing) and NEGATIVE (low points, draining)

Identify patterns — What people and activities appear most in each column?

Schedule more of the positive and create "not-to-do" lists for the negative

Who is Past Year Review (PYR) Best For?

Busy professionals who want an effective review without a huge time investment

Data-driven thinkers who prefer evidence over intuition

First-time reflectors looking for a simple starting point

Those skeptical of traditional goal-setting who want a more practical approach

Anyone short on time during the holiday season

Key Features

Quick to Complete

30-60 minutes is all you need—no multi-day retreats required.

Calendar-Based

Uses your actual schedule as data, not vague memories.

Actionable Output

Creates clear "do more" and "do less" lists.

Evidence-Driven

Decisions based on what actually happened, not assumptions.

Simple Framework

Just two columns: positive and negative experiences.

Proven Method

Used by millions of Ferriss's readers and podcast listeners.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Past Year Review take?

Most people complete it in 30-60 minutes. It's designed to be quick and focused, not an all-day affair.

What if I don't have a detailed calendar?

Use whatever records you have—emails, photos, social media posts, or bank statements can all help jog your memory about what you did throughout the year.

Is this better than traditional goal-setting?

Tim Ferriss argues it's more effective because it's based on evidence of what actually makes you happy, rather than assumptions. Many people find it more actionable than vague resolutions.

Do I need any special tools?

No—just your calendar and something to write with. A simple spreadsheet or even paper works fine.

Who is Tim Ferriss?

Tim Ferriss is the author of The 4-Hour Workweek and host of The Tim Ferriss Show podcast. He's known for deconstructing world-class performers and sharing practical life optimization strategies.

Can I combine this with other reflection methods?

Absolutely. Many people use the PYR as a quick first pass, then go deeper with other frameworks for specific areas they want to explore.