The Team Call That Made Me Realize I Hadn't Planned My 2025 (And Why That's OK)
Dr. Sheri-ann S. McLean-Williams
I teach and empower leaders to close the leadership development gap, build thriving teams, and drive high-performing cultures| Executive Developmental Coach | Leadership Trainer| DISC Consultant| Keynote Speaker | Author
I had an interesting experience yesterday that really got me thinking. I was on a team call, and everyone started sharing their wins from 2024 and what they're hoping for in 2025. You know how these conversations go—there is a lot of "new plans, new me" energy floating around. People were throwing out their special words for the year ahead, and I sat there feeling... honestly, a bit behind.
?Here's the thing – I'm usually that person with planners and goals mapped out months in advance. But this time? Total blank. 2024 threw some curveballs my way, and I guess I was still carrying that weight around, making it hard to think ahead.
?After the call, I found myself staring at my phone, wondering: "What do I actually want from 2025?" First, I thought, "Maybe growth?" (Classic, right?) But it felt like picking vanilla ice cream when you're craving something more specific. Then I considered "consistency" since I'd worked so hard on that last year. Still wasn't quite it.
?Then this word popped into my head: "transparency." My first reaction was pretty much "Nope, too scary!" I mean, being truly transparent? That's like agreeing to let people see all your messy drawers, not just the organized ones. But the word wouldn't leave me alone – you know how sometimes an idea just sticks?
?The funny thing is, once I stopped fighting it, everything felt... calmer? Like when you finally admit to yourself what you've known all along. Transparency started to feel less scary and more like exactly what I needed – a promise to stop pretending I have it all figured out, to be real about my struggles and successes.
?Later, while making something to eat (why do the best ideas always come while cooking?), another word clicked: "authenticity." And suddenly it was like finding the missing puzzle piece. Because being transparent only works if you're being your real self, right? No more trying to squeeze into whatever shape I think others want me to be.
?These two words together? They feel like a cozy sweater that fits, not one I'm trying to convince myself to look good. They're about dropping the professional mask when it's weighing heavy and admitting when I don't have all the answers.
?As I start 2025, I'm both excited and a little nervous. It's like standing at the edge of the pool – you know jumping in is the right move, but you still get those butterflies.
?Listen, if you haven't picked your words for the year yet, no pressure at all. Sometimes these things need to find you when you're ready. And if you have? I'd love to hear what chose you.
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Keep sowing and keep growing
?Dr. Sheri-ann McLean-Williams
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Visit my website today: https://mcleancoachingandconsulting.com/
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1 个月You are not behind if you have recognized where you are and then taken action, Dr. Sheri-ann S. McLean-Williams! Great piece practicing transparency and authenticity.