Reflecting on a Year of Challenges and Growth

This year has been one of the most challenging yet transformative periods of my career. As the Chief Executive Officer, I have faced numerous or physical struggles, mental health issues and suspected diagnosis of ADHD, all with tough business decisions that have tested my resilience, leadership and my soul.

One of the most significant decisions was to reshape the way we communicated with each other and our customers. We started using the DISC framework, which categorises personalities into four colours - Dominance (Red), Influence (Yellow), Steadiness (Green), and Conscientiousness (Blue) – this has provided us with valuable insights into our team's dynamics and customer interactions. For example:

Dominance (Red): This year, I had to make some bold and decisive moves to steer the company through turbulent times. These decisions were not easy, but they were necessary to ensure our long-term success. Embracing the Red aspect of the DISC framework, I learned to be more assertive and confident in my choices.

Influence (Yellow): Building and maintaining relationships has always been a cornerstone of our business. We focused on enhancing our communication and engagement strategies. By tapping into the Yellow aspect, we have fostered a more collaborative and positive environment, which has been crucial in navigating this year's challenges.

Steadiness (Green): Stability and support have been vital during these uncertain times. We worked on strengthening our internal processes and providing our team with the resources they needed to thrive. The Green aspect of the DISC framework reminded us of the importance of patience and consistency in our efforts.

Conscientiousness (Blue): Attention to detail and a commitment to excellence have always been part of our ethos. This year, we doubled down on our analytical and methodical approaches to problem-solving. The Blue aspect helped us maintain our high standards and deliver quality results despite the obstacles we faced.

Throughout this journey, I have learned the importance of believing in myself and my abilities. The challenges we faced were daunting, but they also provided opportunities for growth and self-discovery. By embracing the DISC framework and leveraging the strengths of each colour, we have not only survived but thrived.

As we look ahead, I am confident that the lessons learned this year will continue to guide us. With a renewed sense of purpose and a stronger, more cohesive team, we are well-positioned to tackle whatever the future holds.