Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Chaos, Growth, and Gratitude

As we approach the end of 2024, I find myself reflecting not just on the whirlwind of December but on the entire year. The word that keeps coming to mind is “chaotic”—but in the most transformative way. It’s been a year of massive change, personal challenges, and unexpected joys.

A Year of Transition

At the start of 2024, I was in a leadership position at a job I absolutely loved, working with a passionate and hardworking team. Fast forward to today, and I’m closing out the year as a self-employed business owner, collaborating with multiple organisations. It’s been a journey of growth, doubt, and discovery.

This leap into self-employment has been different and, at times, downright challenging. There have been moments when I questioned my decisions and wondered if I’d taken on too much. But there’s also been an incredible sense of satisfaction. I’ve relished the autonomy, embraced the diversity of my work, and found joy in making a tangible difference. It’s a constant learning curve, and while I’m still hard on myself (high expectations are both a blessing and a curse), I’m slowly learning to let go of the panic over unfinished tasks.

The Growth of "Strings to Your Bow"

One of the highlights of my year has been the continued success of my podcast, Strings to Your Bow. The conversations I’ve had with guests have been nothing short of inspiring. Hearing their stories is a constant reminder that everyone faces challenges and grows from them in their own unique way.

Season 2 is now recorded, and I’ve already booked the guests for Season 3. Watching this project evolve has been incredibly fulfilling, and I’m excited to see where it goes in the future.

Personal Challenges and Resilience

This year hasn’t been without its difficulties. In November, we said goodbye to my nan, a remarkable woman who had been a constant in my life for 44 years. Adjusting to life without her has been tough, but I know she was proud of me. I still share my daily updates with her—even if it’s no longer over the phone.

On a lighter note, I’ve embraced a new (and rather surprising) hobby: wild swimming. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be willingly plunging into a freezing cold reservoir before sunrise. Yet here I am, braving the cold and finding peace and exhilaration in the water.

Unexpected Success

What’s truly surprised me is how well the business has done in such a short time. When I first took the plunge, I never imagined I’d be contemplating bringing others on board by the end of the year. Yet here I am, exploring the possibility of expanding my team in 2025. It’s a prospect that excites and terrifies me in equal measure.

Looking Ahead to 2025

There’s so much I hope to achieve in the coming year. It will be fascinating to look back on a full year of self-employment and see how far I’ve come. For now, I’m simply grateful—for the challenges that pushed me, the successes that encouraged me, and the support network that carried me through.

To everyone who’s been part of my journey this year, thank you. Here’s to 2025 and all the adventures it holds!