As we approach the end of this year and look forward to 2025, I reflect on everything that’s happened in the past 2-years and the things I’ve done, achieved, and actively navigated and changed for the better.
I am amazed that my husband and I now have a thriving 4-year-old. It feels like only yesterday we had a lockdown newborn during the pandemic.
This year, our 4-year-old enjoyed his first epic birthday party that we hosted. He had his first memorable Christmas full of festivities, and – curtesy of Mummy and Daddy – submitted his primary school application to start in September 2025.
As I ponder this point, no saying resonates truer than “the days are long, but the years are short.”
As a family, we travelled a lot this year, having fun, making memories. We enjoyed multiple trips to Leeds, spending quality time with grandma, aunties/uncle, and cousins.
We camped on the beautiful coast of South England and experienced (and loved) our first family holiday at an all-inclusive resort abroad. It was that good, we are already planning our second for Summer 2025.
In the summer of 2023, I gave up a lifelong career in government marketing, communications, and engagement to set up my consultancy.
So far, so good – and I am proud of the path I’m forging, the new relationships and networks I’m building, the businesses I’m winning, and the successes I’m achieving.
Above all, I am happy with the real impact I now make, helping others and myself in the work I do.
2024 also saw changes to my voluntary roles. After embarking on a journey in 2023 with the King’s Trust as an employability & progression mentor, I volunteered this year to join our son’s nursery as a parent trustee.
With additional responsibilities, I decided to step down from Addison Youth with whom I’d been with and supported, first as a youth worker and later as a trustee, since 2006.
As I grow and become healthier and stronger every day, I know I owe it to myself – for following my heart and taking the plunge last year – and to the new professional and personal ventures and roles in life.
It reminds me to stay positive and continue living in the present, having fun, and keeping my mind and heart open to learning new things and growing, every day.
Most important of all, if you’re seeking happiness, better health, and more strength – mentally, emotionally, and physically – always follow your heart. For inspiration, here are some of my favourite affirmations to see us into the new year and beyond.
