Connection - My Guiding Word

I’m back from my overseas holiday, refreshed and excited to kick off the year with my first article.

In a world that’s constantly moving, buzzing with activity and distractions, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. As I sat down to reflect on my goals and intentions for the year ahead, one word began to echo in my mind "Connection".

Last year, my guiding word was “Audacious,” a word that embodied boldness, courage and the willingness to challenge the status quo. It pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and take on challenges that once seemed daunting. Pivoting my coaching business from career-coaching to becoming a mindset and Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) coach was one such leap. Along the way, I achieved certifications as a Master NLP Practitioner and Coach, Master Emotional Change Technique (ECT) Practitioner and Master Relaxation Hypnosis Practitioner. I even completed a Certificate III in Business to give me insight into the digital business building skills I needed.

Stepping into the unknown, I shared my story courageously and vulnerably, and embraced the audacious spirit of the word culminated in my nomination as a finalist for the Emerging Coach of the Year. It was a transformative year filled with growth, learning and resilience. And as the calendar turned and I began a new chapter, I felt the need for a shift.

This year, I’m embracing a new guiding word "Connection".

Why Connection?

Connection, to me, signifies the threads that weave together the fabric of our lives. It’s about fostering deeper relationships with myself, my loved ones, my clients and the world around me. Connection is the antidote to the isolation and disconnection that can creep in amidst the busyness of life. It’s a reminder to be present, to listen, to engage and to nurture the bonds that matter most.

Choosing “Connection” as my word for the year reflects my intention to prioritise authenticity and meaningful interactions. It’s about cultivating a life where relationships both personal and professional are built on trust, knowing and mutual growth.

Connection Starts Within

One of the most profound forms of connection is the one we cultivate with ourselves. Over the past year, I’ve learned the importance of self-awareness and self-compassion. As a mindset coach, I guide my clients through the process of recognising their limiting beliefs and suppressed emotions to then work on releasing them. This year, I’m committed to deepening my own self-connection.

This means taking time for reflection, being kind to myself when challenges arise and celebrating the small wins more excitedly. It’s about tuning into my intuition, recognising my needs and ensuring I’m aligned with my values and purpose.

After all, how can we authentically connect with others if we’re disconnected from ourselves?

Connection with Loved Ones

As a mum, wife and coach, life can often feel like a balancing act. This year, I’m setting the intention to nurture my relationships with those closest to me. Connection with family and friends isn’t just about spending time together, it’s about being fully present during that time.

I want to create moments that matter whether it’s family dinners filled with laughter, heart-to-heart conversations with my kids or catching up with friends without the distractions of work or technology. These connections enrich our lives, providing love, support and joy.

Connection with Clients

As a coach, connection is at the heart of everything I do. It’s about creating a safe space where my clients feel even more seen, heard and valued. This year, I’m focusing on deepening my relationships with the incredible women I have the privilege to work with.

Connection in coaching goes beyond techniques and strategies, it’s about empathy, deep knowing and genuine care. My mission has always been to empower women to recognise their self-worth and step into their full potential. By prioritising connection, I can better serve my clients, helping them navigate challenges and celebrate their achievements.

Connection with the Community

Another aspect of connection I’m embracing this year is building and nurturing my community. Whether it’s through social media, networking events or collaborations, I’m excited to connect with like-minded individuals who share my passion for empowerment and growth.

Community is about coming together, supporting one another and creating a ripple effect of positivity and change. By fostering meaningful connections within my community, I hope to inspire and be inspired, to learn and to contribute.

Connection with the World

In the hustle of daily life, it’s easy to lose touch with the world around us. This year, I’m committing to reconnecting with nature, appreciating its beauty and finding moments of stillness amidst the chaos. Whether it’s a walk along the beach (without listening to a podcast or being on a call), a hike through the mountains or simply sitting in my garden with a cup of tea, these moments of connection with the earth ground me and remind me of the bigger picture.

Embracing Connection in Challenges

Connection isn’t always easy. It requires vulnerability, patience and effort. There will be moments when it feels easier to retreat, to avoid or to disconnect. And I’ve learned that the most meaningful growth often comes from leaning into discomfort and choosing connection over avoidance.

Whether it’s having a difficult conversation, showing up authentically or reaching out for support, connection requires courage. This year, I’m embracing the challenges as opportunities to strengthen my connections and grow as a person.

Looking Ahead

As I move through this year with “Connection” as my guiding word, I’m filled with hope and excitement. Connection reminds me to prioritise what truly matters, to engage deeply and to live with intention. It’s a word that challenges me to be present, to listen and to nurture the relationships that enrich my life.

Last year, “Audacious” pushed me to take bold steps and embrace the unknown. This year, “Connection” grounds me, reminding me of the power of relationships and the beauty of shared experiences.

And so, I invite you to reflect on your own guiding word for the year.

Have you chosen a word that resonates with your intentions and aspirations?

How will it shape your actions and experiences in the months ahead?

Here’s to a year of connection, authenticity and meaningful relationships.

Let’s embrace the extraordinary in the everyday, one connection at a time.