Lessons from a Tough Year: Finding Clarity and Celebrating Wins

This isn’t a doom-and-gloom post it just starts out that way, but I promise it turns into a rainbow.

I started the day with hope. I had a promising interview lined up for what looked to be a fantastic organization. The role? It felt like someone had written it just for me. After putting the kids to bed, I spent hours preparing reviewing notes, practicing answers, and crafting a follow-up email template. I adjusted my schedule, groomed myself to look sharp, and logged in 5 minutes early, ready to rock and roll.

But then it started happening.

At first, I thought, “They’re just running late.” Then 5 minutes passed. Then 10. I sent a polite email: “I’m on the call, just confirming I’m in the right place.” That’s when I got the dreaded reply: “I thought someone told you…”

The role had been put on pause. I was out before I even got in. My blood boiled, and then the sense of defeat set in. Was this how 2024 was going to end?

But then I stopped myself.

I thought about everything else that happened in 2024. And you know what? 2024 wasn’t just about work.

• My kids crushed it in school.
• My wife and I worked hard on our communication, and it’s blossomed into something beautiful.
• I visited family in Australia and gained a new niece and nephew.
• I worked with an amazing team that drove incredible customer results.
• I even won an award for my work as a CS leader.

Yes, the world feels like it’s spinning out of control right now. But maybe that’s a good thing. It’s giving me a moment to pause, breathe, and find clarity. It’s giving me space to ask myself some big questions:

• How will I hold onto me while navigating my next professional chapter?
• How will I protect my family and my health?
• How can I achieve more while giving less of myself away?

The Lesson of 2024: Less is More As someone who has always been an anxiety-driven high performer, I stumbled upon a surprising realization this year. When I let off the throttle a bit when I worked at 70%-80% instead of constantly striving for 110% I didn’t just survive. I thrived.

• I got praised.
• I got rewarded.
• I felt more seen than ever before.

By letting go of my insecurities, rejecting perfectionism, and showing up authentically, I discovered a better way to work and live. I wasn’t perfect at maintaining it all year it ebbed and flowed but those moments showed me what’s possible.

Now in 2025 As we've closed the book on 2024, I’m focusing on the wins: the moments I embraced imperfection, took care of myself, and let myself win. My challenge for 2025? Do it more consistently.

And I challenge you to do the same:

• Get out of your own way.
• Celebrate your wins, no matter how small.
• Let yourself win.

Here’s to a year of clarity, balance, and success on your own terms.

What are you going to be double down on in 2025?