As we close out 2024, I've been reflecting on this wild and messy year. It wasn't the one I imagined, and I didn't hit some of the big, bold goals I set.
For years, I've delivered results in my executive role. I have been consistent and knew the next steps to take to get to the next level.
A disciplined approach, I lived in that life with a dialed-in morning routine, very well-planned day, clear communication. I had a solid plan, showing up consistently each day. I'm good at making plans, executing them, and getting results.
But if I'm being honest, I was also operating in my comfort zone.
I didn't realize it at the time because I loved the process. But looking back, I can see that I thrived where I knew the terrain.
This year was different.
I stepped out of the familiar and into something entirely new. I left my executive role almost a year ago to climb a new mountain - and let me tell you, it stretched me in ways I couldn't have imagined.
Sure, I had some incredible wins - working with amazing clients, creating impact, and growing in ways I hadn't planned. But several projects I dreamed up? They just didn't happen.
And that was a tough pill to swallow for someone who's always been so good at mapping a plan and executing it.
One of the biggest lessons I've learned is this: when you step into your next level, it will feel messy and uncomfortable - and that's exactly where you need to be.
It's easy to stay low, replaying what didn't go right. But leadership isn't about staying stuck in the highs or lows. It's about showing up in the messy middle, embracing the discomfort, and taking the next best step forward.
During a recent planning session with my Jenn, I share my frustration with her on missing the mark on some things. She said:
"Don't you think you're right where you need to be, right now?"
My answer: "YES!"
Sometimes we get so caught up in what didn't happen, we forget to honor where we are. The reality is, I'm climbing a new mountain. This year was about planting seeds, testing ideas, and learning through the process.
And that's okay.
My message for you is this:
When you step into your next level, it will feel messy, uncomfortable, and even frustrating. But that's where growth happens. That's where leadership truly begins.
So as you think about your own year, let me ask you:
Are you stuck replaying the disappointments of 2024?
Or are you ready to respect the lesson and move forward?
Here's what I've learned about leading ing 2025:
1.) Reflect but don't dwell. Take time to review the wins, challenges, and lessons from 2024. Then decide what you'll take forward - and what you'll leave behind.
2.) Focus on who you're becoming. Leadership is about more than hitting goals. Who do you want to be in 2025? What kind of leader will inspire others and serve something bigger than yourself?
3.) Connect to a cause that matters. Real leadership isn't just about personal growth - it's about making an impact. What mission, cause, or purpose will drive you into the new year?
2025 is coming fast. Don't let is pass you by while you're stuck in the highs or lows of 2024. Instead, embrace the mess, take the next step, and lead forward with purpose.
And if you're ready to get clear on your vision and take bold steps into the new year, let's connect. I'm here to help you lead with clarity, purpose, and power.
Let's make 2025 the year you step into the leader you're meant to be- mess and all.
If you want support designing your 2025 blueprint and building momentum, I'm offering an exclusive 3-hour planning session + 30 days of expert coaching to help you:
✔️Gain clarity on your vision for 2025.
✔️Build a focused, actionable plan.
✔️Stay on track with guidance and accountability.
This offer is only open to a few people, and I'd love to work with you to make 2025 your best year yet.
Click the link below to learn more and secure your spot.
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Why You Shouldn't Be Hard on Yourself: Embracing Self-Compassion
In a world that often values productivity, achievement, and perfection, it's easy to fall into the trap of being too hard on yourself. Whether it's about a mistake at work, missing a fitness goal, or not meeting expectations in your personal life, the internal critic can become loud and relentless. However, it's important to remember that we all have our unique journeys, and self-compassion is a key to maintaining mental and emotional well-being. Here's why being kind to yourself is essential for a healther, happier life.
1. Perfection is an Illusion. We live in a society that glorifies perfection, but the truth is, perfection doesn't exist. Everyone makes mistakes; it's part of being human. When we hold ourselves to unrealistic standards, we're setting ourselves up for constant disappointment. Instead of striving for perfection, focus on progress. Celebrate the small wins and learn from setbacks. Remember, growth happens through experience, not flawless execution.
2. Self-Criticism Impedes Growth. While a little self-reflection can be helpful, harsh self-criticism can actually prevent growth. When you're too focused on your flaws and mistakes, you might become paralyzed by fear of failure, making it harder to take risks or try new things. On the other hand, self-compassion encourages a mindset of curiosity and exploration. It fosters resilience, allowing you to bounce back from setbacks and keep moving forward with confidence.
3. You Deserve the Same Kindness you Offer Others. We're often our own toughest critics, but think about how you would respond if a friend came to you with the same struggles. Chances are, you'd offer them encouragement, understanding, and kindness. It's important to extend that same grace to yourself. You are worthy of love, acceptance, and understanding, especially during tough times. Treat yourself as you would a close friend, and you'll notice how much lighter life feels.
4. Self-Compassion Boosts Mental Health. Research shows that self-compassion can significantly improve mental health by reducing stress, anxiety and depression. When we show ourselves kindness, we activate the brain's reward system, which promotes a sense of well-being and reduces negative emotional patterns. This creates a cycle of positivity that helps manage life's challenges with a clearer mind and more balanced outlook.
5. It's Okay to Not Have All the Answers. In life, we're often faced with uncertainty, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the pressure to have everything figured out. It's okay not to have all the answers. Embrace the unknown, and trust that you're doing your best. Life is a series of learning experiences, and it's perfectly fine to take things one step at a time. Sometimes, the most important thing is to be patient with yourself as you navigate the path ahead.
6. Treating Yourself with Compassion Enhances Relationships. When you practice self-compassion, you become better equipped to show up for others. Self-kindness leads to emotional stability, which in turn improves your ability to connect with people in a meaningful way. It fosters empathy and understanding, allowing you to be a supportive presence for your loved ones.
Final Thoughts: YOU ARE ENOUGH. In times of difficulty or when you feel like you're not measuring up, remember that you are enough just as you are. Be patient with yourself, and embrace the beauty of imperfection. Life's challenges will always be there, but how you respond to them shapes your experience. By treating yourself with kindness and understanding, you'll not only improve your mental health but also cultivate a deeper sense of peace and happiness.
So, the next time you catch yourself being too hard on yourself, take a deep breath, and remind yourself that you are doing the best you can. And that, is more than enough.
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