I’ve always loved this time of year.
It’s a natural pause — a moment to breathe, reflect, and ask ourselves “what next?” As one year closes and another approaches, I find myself taking stock of where I am, where I’ve come from, and where I want to go.
Ten years ago, it was during this very season that I made a pivotal personal decision — one that quietly set me on the path I’m on today. Since then, this annual reflection has become a ritual. Every year, I write down my personal and professional intentions: career goals, qualifications, family milestones, ways to give back, and the kind of leader — and human — I want to be.
I genuinely believe this practice matters. It creates clarity, purpose, and perspective. And I’d encourage everyone to try it, even in the simplest form.
The questions I always come back to
Each year, I ask myself a few grounding questions:
- What were my biggest achievements and challenges this year?
- What should I genuinely celebrate and be proud of?
- Based on my values and purpose, what should be my 1–3 key projects moving forward?
- Why do these projects matter — and what impact am I trying to create?
What 2025 looked like for me
2025 was full. Rich. Intense. At times, exhausting — and deeply rewarding.
Some of the milestones I’m proud of include:
- Completing my CMI Level 7 Chartered Management qualification
- Leading the onboarding of 100+ users onto Front, driving significant tech and process transformation
- Being promoted to Director, with responsibility across people, process and technology change
- Navigating life with a 2-year-old and a 5-year-old — nursery, school events, routines, and all the invisible logistics that come with them
- Fundraising for the George Rockstar charity
- Beginning my journey supporting Professional Women Network
When I look at it all written down, it truly was a full-on year. None of it happened by accident — and I couldn’t have sustained it without clear structure, disciplined time management, and a strong support system.
The challenges behind the milestones
Of course, growth never comes without friction.
This year challenged me to push past my natural introversion and deliberately expand my network — something that doesn’t always come easily, but proved essential. I also navigated increased pressure as my responsibilities grew, alongside moments of being questioned because of my flexible working arrangements.
Those moments weren’t easy. But working with a mentor and coach helped me reframe my thinking, gain perspective, and turn pressure into clarity and intentional action.
What I’m most proud of
Beyond the titles and achievements, what matters most to me is this:
- I delivered quality, not just quantity
- I stayed true to myself and my values
- I remained present for my children — even when it felt like there was never enough time
And yet, if I’m honest, I always want to do more — because legacy matters to me. I want to use my experiences, strengths, and lessons to help others grow.
My commitments and projects for 2026
With that in mind, these are the projects I’m intentionally committing to next year:
- ILM Coaching Accreditation
- Head of Marketing role on the PWN Board
- Mentoring through Global Academy
- Continued fundraising for George Rockstar
- Protecting time and presence with the people I love
These aren’t just activities — they’re aligned commitments. Each one helps me live with purpose, extend my impact, and create space to give back more meaningfully.
A final reflection
What about you?
Life is precious. We never live the same year twice. Some people would give anything for the time, health, or opportunity to plan their next chapter.
If this season gives you even a moment to pause, reflect, and choose what really matters — take it.
The future doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to be intentional.
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