Christmas is a time for reflection on the year gone by and the new one approaching.
For me, it has been the toughest year in the 10 years of being in business. We are fortunate, from what I am seeing of others.
Whether it is because of the topics we offer or how we deliver our programs - we have got through the year with just a few bumps and bruises.
Many have been hit hard this year in their work, their personal life, or both.
If I can offer one piece of advice, that is to use this Christmas as a time of reflection and as a launching pad for the new year.
I was always a proponent of moving forward quickly when tough times happen. Pushing through the emotions to focus entirely on the future.
This had worked but not so much these days. The more I learn about the brain the more I understand the need to stop and feel the pain that tough times bring.
This year I pushed through tough times and hit the proverbial wall. I took a week off and realised how tired I was.
Rest is how we recover, both physically and emotionally. Rest brings reflection. When we rest, we have to stop and think.
Taking the time to stop and think can be scary, yet it is needed if we are to move forward.
Take time off if you can, reflect on the year that has been, and recall the tough times.
Tough times don't necessarily make us stronger but they do make us wiser. This is how we learn from our past, rather than it becoming a trigger that holds us back.
When you've completed your reflection then it is time to reinvigorate. Looking forward, what do you want to achieve in the next year, and how will you go about it?
It is often said that goals should fit the formula of SMART – specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, & time-bound.
For me, goals should be one thing – flexible. Life changes fast, so we must be prepared to adjust our goals to suit as needed.
Whatever goals you set for 2025; I wish you the very best at achieving them. That is all we can hope for and all we should expect of ourselves, doing the very best that we can.
Use these holidays to rest, to reflect and to reinvigorate.
I look forward to seeing you achieve your goals, whatever they might be.
Let's talk!
Christmas, A Time For Reflection.