Reflections for the New Year

I'm not sure about you, but the beginning of a new year brings with it much reflection for me. It's often challenging to make the time to sit in your thoughts, but the gratitude and lessons that come with it are incredibly valuable.?

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This year has been a period of intense self-discovery for me, encompassing an exploration of my gifts, aspirations for the future, and a dedication to understanding what I have been called to do with this life. Here are some things I've learned and areas of personal development:?

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1. Clarified and Prioritized Personal Values: ?

I've identified and prioritized my personal values, all of which revolve around people and building meaningful relationships. I recently read Strength to Strength by Arthur C. Brooks, which explained to me the idea of finding joy in the second half of one's career by becoming an experienced problem solver, teacher, and challenger. It opened my eyes to understanding the value that I can bring to our team and our clients – not always in tangible work, but in my presence and experience.?

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2. Creating a Thriving Environment: ?

I am focused on creating an environment in which I will thrive. This involves focusing on doing the work that only I can do, recognizing that I'm at my best when engaging in strategic thinking over tactical work, acknowledging the importance of solitude for producing my best work, and actively saying no to commitments that no longer align with my joy and purpose.?

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3. Key Lessons for the New Year: ?

Reflecting on the past year, I've identified several lessons to carry forward into the coming year:?

?? - Continue to identify things that light me up and bring me joy.?

?? - Stop carrying the weight of the world - delegate responsibilities, empower others, let go of unnecessary burdens, and learn to push back.?

?? - Practice speaking the truth in love.?

?? - Find contentment in the everyday moments.?

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I plan to keep this in front of me as a gentle, daily reminder. I think many of us could benefit from doing the same:?

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"There is only one you. You can't fall behind other people if you aren't running the same race as they are. If you want an edge, be personal where everyone else is technical. Automate your systems and not your relationships so that you can be more of yourself. You are the only you. The flip side of that is that there is only one you. You must care for yourself, replenish and nourish. You are your most precious resource, and you are finite." - Nothing is Missing by Nicole Walters?