As the year winds down, pausing and looking back is natural. We tend to reflect on what’s
happened — the good, the tough, and everything in between. For many of us, the end of the
year stirs up a mix of emotions: we’re grateful for the good things that came our way, a little
nostalgic about the challenges we’ve faced, and excited for what’s to come in the next chapter.
Looking back on this year, primarily through my work with clients, I’ve witnessed some
incredible transformations. I’ve seen people step out of their comfort zones, confront burnout,
and chase after dreams they once thought were impossible. I have witnessed the moments
when my clients realized that their relationships- with themselves and their significant other-
were having a more enormous impact at work than they recognized Being part of those journeys
has been an honour. As we close out the year, if there’s one thing I could share with you, it’s
this: You’re capable of much more than you give yourself credit for.
Looking Back: Lessons and Gratitude
I encourage you to take a few moments to reflect on the past year. What would you remember
the most about the past year? What were you pleased about, big or small? It might have been
accomplishing something at work, a personal victory, or a bond that grew stronger. Appreciate
those moments, regardless of how insignificant they may be.
But let’s be honest — there were probably some challenges that were far from pleasant. Life
isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, right? Sometimes, things weren’t going your way, or your
responsibilities felt too heavy to bear. Yet, I think we both know that we learn the most in those
challenging moments. Every obstacle you faced this year was an opportunity for growth, even if
it didn’t feel that way at the time. What lessons can you take with you into the future? How did
you rise above those difficulties, even when the world pushed you down?
In my case, the year was like a roller coaster. The nature of my work and my parental
responsibilities helped me overcome a situation where I had to juggle many roles at once.
However, in all the disarray, I still found joy in many things: my children’s development, the
privilege of working with amazing clients, or simply writing down a few ideas in a notebook. In
these instances, I can see what my job is really about. We all have our battles, but we also have
our victories, which are essential to appreciate.
Striving for Better: Setting the Stage for 2025
I want to challenge you to dream bigger as we look ahead to a new year. Not in a way that will
make you feel overwhelmed or like you’re setting yourself up for failure, but in a way that excites
you about the possibilities. What’s one area of your life where you know, deep down, that you’re
capable of more? It could be your health, relationships, career — anywhere you feel you have
untapped potential.
Here’s a simple, actionable approach to help you get started:
1. Reflect: Take a hard look at what’s been holding you back. Are there any limiting
beliefs, old habits, or fears that no longer serve you? Acknowledging what’s been in your
way is the first step to clearing it out.
2. Dream: Close your eyes and picture what success looks like for you in this area. Get as
specific as possible. What does it look like? What does it feel like to achieve that goal?
Visualize it as vividly as you can.
3. Plan: Break that vision down into smaller, bite-sized steps. No one reaches their goals in
one giant leap; it’s all about making consistent progress, one step at a time.
4. Commit: Find someone you trust and share your goal with them. Holding yourself
accountable to someone else can help keep you on track. It’s amazing what a little
accountability can do for your motivation.
An Invitation to Take Action
One of my favourite quotes goes like this: “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to
start to be great.” Let that be your mantra as you step into 2025. You don’t have to wait for the
stars to align or for everything to be perfect. You can start right now, right where you are, with
the tools and resources you already have.
If you’re stuck or uncertain, know you are not alone. Many of my clients start their journeys
feeling the same way. But they've transformed their lives through reflection, intention, and the right kind of support. And so can you. All it takes is that first step.
Here’s to a Purposeful Year Ahead
As you wrap up this year and prepare to welcome 2025, I want to encourage you to embrace
what’s ahead. Don’t shy away from the challenges that will help you grow, and don’t let fear hold
you back from pursuing the life you truly want. Be gentle with yourself, but stay true to your
vision for your future.
Let’s make the upcoming year one filled with growth, joy, and a profound purpose. And
remember, you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready to take that next step, I’m here to help.
Together, we can craft a strategy to help you live the life you deserve.
Wishing you a peaceful end to the year and an exciting new beginning.
Warmly,
Dr. Tomi Mitchell
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