Remember those ambitious plans and dreams you had back in January? How are you doing with them? Life has a funny way of taking unexpected turns, but that doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate the progress we’ve made, no matter how different it looks from what we initially envisioned.
As October is a time for reflection and Thanksgiving in Canada, I like to use it as a time to review my year’s goals as well as to see what I can do to end the year off with a bang.
Perhaps you can think about your own journey as you read. What went well this year so far? What were you able to learn? What projects did you complete? Any meaningful conversations or relationships come about? What unexpected joys have you experienced? Together, let’s recognize our efforts, and find joy in each step forward we have taken.
Reflecting on 2024 So Far
Revisiting Your Initial Ambitions
I love the tip I got from a coaching course with Certified Flourishing Coach – to keep goals simple. That is what I did for 2024: I chose 3 personal, 3 relationship, and 3 professional primary goals for the year. Then, I wrote them on a piece of paper and put them on my mirror so I could see them every day.
As I look at the paper now, I can see that I have moved forward on some of these goals. Hooray! But others have been replaced. And that’s ok.
For example, personally, I have been on the road to better fitness. I released over 40 lbs in the last couple of years. And I wanted to drop another 20 this year because it would put me in the best shape of my life. But I had a surprise this summer when my body’s estrogen level fell and my energies collapsed. As a result, I needed to shift my focus from weight release to rest and rebuilding.
I was very disappointed when this change occurred. And it took me some time to work through the feelings. But I am happy to say that I did. And I eventually got some naturopathic support. I am happy to say that I am on my way back to my regular energy levels.
Even though my personal goals physically look different now, I can celebrate that I was able to accomplish the other 2 personal goals on my list: My hubby John and I were able to celebrate with over 60 friends and family our 25th anniversary with campfires, great food, photos, and a playlist. I was also able to share my story with them all during that time together. It was a very meaningful time.
What were your initial plans for you personally? Have they needed to shift?
Celebrating Achievements
Amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it is easy to overlook our achievements – big or small. Yet, celebrating these milestones is crucial for maintaining motivation and a positive mindset.
Think back to the relationships you have had this year and projects you’ve completed. Did you put together a creative plan or help someone put their plan into action? Did you finally finish that screenplay you’ve been working on for ages? Or maybe you launched a wellness initiative that positively impacted your community? Even small victories, like having meaningful conversations that led to new collaborations or insights, deserve recognition.
Relationally, my 3 primary goals were to have deeper conversations and relationships with God and my family and friends. I can see from these 3 goals that I have improved. I have dug into some studies to deep my God connection. In addition, how I have chatted with friends and family has been more face to face (including FaceTime) rather than by text or phone. My time with my hubby John has been much more consistent as well as more meaningful to both of us.
Celebrating these achievements reinforces the idea that progress comes in many forms. So, take a moment to acknowledge what you have done. Write it down, share it with a friend, or even treat yourself to a small reward. How can you celebrate your accomplishments?
Embracing Unexpected Progress
Life often takes us on unplanned journeys. And that was certainly true for me this year not only personally, but also professionally. I planned to attend at least two events to network this summer and fall and to share my work there. In addition, I wanted to launch my coaching practice. However, that was not to be. Remember I mentioned my energies sagged this past summer? This meant that I needed to keep my physical health a priority. And to do that, I stayed close to home and did what I could when I could from here.
I am happy to say that staying home has been a blessing in disguise. I was able to develop further my writing for television and film. The courses and mentorship I received deepened my understanding of writing and my results. I now have two writing buddies who I meet with regularly to write. I have two television show concepts ready to be filmed. They represent some of my best writing yet. I honestly am proud. I feel so supported and able.
I also took some online courses about developing an online presence. As a result, I hosted an online challenge for the coaching I do. This challenge introduced me to a business coach who is perfectly suited for me. She has walked with me these last 6 months and has taught me a lot about being authentic with my online presence. I don’t have it all figured out yet, but I am getting there. In fact, this last year, I told my own story on film as well as shot a short film about how our company got started telling wellness stories. Both of these projects are so very true to who our company is and who we are. I am very grateful.
I’m most excited about what is coming in 2025 – our 25th year of being in business. To celebrate 25 years as a company, we are changing our name. We will have a brand new look, website, and new services. All this was made possible because of the unexpected staying close to home. Our new website is www.findingthegoldcandf.com. More to come in the next couple of months.
Embracing unexpected progress means being open to change. It also means recognizing that growth often happens in unpredictable ways. What have you earned from your unexpected experiences?
