Reflection isn’t just for New Year’s Eve with a party popper in hand – it’s something worth doing any time life feels a bit like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle. (some years that’s been more often than I’d like!)
This year has been a journey full of learning curves – some were gentle meanders, some felt more like roller-coasters – and it’s reminded me of a few things that I thought were worth sharing.
Community Really Does Matter
Turns out, the phrase ‘it takes a village’ isn’t just for raising kids – it’s for running businesses, surviving tough days, and celebrating wins too. Having a circle of supportive humans (and dogs, obviously) makes everything easier. They’re the ones who remind you you’re not losing the plot when things get messy.
Flexible Work = Freedom + Creativity
One of the best things about flexible work? It gives you space to breathe and think. And when you’ve got space, your creativity and innovation can see through the mists of mayhem and remind or inspire you for what could be next.
For me, flexibility isn’t just about convenience – it’s about fairness and inclusion. Especially for those of us who think a little differently, work better in the evening, or need to progress things at a more gentle pace due to other commitments. When work fits around life, rather than the other way round, everyone wins.
Health Isn’t Optional
Here’s the truth I’ve finally accepted – you can’t pour from an empty cup. And yet, so many of us try – pushing through, following the ‘get rich quick’ guides, working endless 60+ hour weeks. This year reminded me that checking in on mental and physical health isn’t a ‘nice to have’ – it’s essential. Whether it’s a walk, a nap, or just sitting quietly immersed in a book about dragons and magic, those pauses matter. They’re what keep you going, and replenish your energy when life gets busy.
Values Are Your Compass
I’ve always tried to run my business based on what feels right – even before I had the right words for it. Now I know many of the words and values that have helped guide me in recent years, including creativity, flexibility, equity, perspective and empathy. They’re not just buzzwords – they’re the compass that keeps me heading in the right direction. When your work lines up with your values, it feels good. Simple as that.
Looking Ahead
So, here’s a thought. Take your own moment to reflect. What have you learned recently? What do you want to carry forward? And what can you happily leave behind? (Imagine them blowing off in the wind like bubbles – very satisfying, and you can watch them pop and disappear from a distance!)
Then, take a deep breath, and step into the next chapter with clarity and a little excitement for what’s to come.
Final Thought
Growth isn’t neat and tidy. It’s messy, unpredictable, and sometimes can even be fun. Every twist and turn teaches us something. Here’s to embracing creativity, flexibility, and wellbeing as we all keep learning and evolving.
