1. I’ve learnt to trust my gut instinct. I’ve
always known this is strong in me but this year I learnt the hard way. I chose
not to question something that was niggling me and as a result there was an
awful moment of embarrassment followed by outrage and anger that I never, ever,
want to feel again. If something doesn’t feel right then I will follow that
feeling, ask questions and trust that the feeling is right.
2. I’ve learnt that I’m very happy (and relieved)
to have found my purpose. And I’ve also learnt that my purpose will continue to
evolve. In its broadest sense I want to help people realise how extraordinary
they are. For years I was searching for the ‘thing’ while jumping from job to
job, hoping that the next leap would be the enlightening one. I wondered if I’d
find it in my sewing which I love but alas no. Holly Tucker refers to her
purpose as the ‘Golden Thread of Life’ in her Conversations of Inspiration
podcast with Deliciously Ella founder, Ella Mills. This golden thread is linked
to her purpose and as long as it’s present all is ok. Through the good times
and the not so good times. It’s what links everything together.
3. I’ve learnt that learning most definitely doesn’t
have to come from books. It’s 2018. The way that we receive and process
information has changed. I’ve listened to some inspiring podcasts and my month
with TedTalks in October was enlightening. I’ve also inhaled books, articles
and blogs. I have learnt from some amazing coaches and most recently a business
mentor. My advice to you is to not compare yourself to others (see point 8) and
find what works best for you. So to fit it all in I listen to podcasts on my
runs and read books when I travel on the tube.
4. I’ve learnt that when I put my mind to something,
I give it my all. This autumn I made it back to a weight where I feel my most
confident. Everyone has their number. It’s unique to them. And no one else ever
has the right to question to it. Body confidence plays such a key role in my
life. I walk taller, feel happier and truly believe I can achieve
anything.
5. I’ve learnt that I’m a natural facilitator.
Defined as ‘a person or thing that makes an action or process easy or easier’ I
can identify with it all. Whether it be for work or play I love bringing people
together to get stuff done. It plays to my strengths of being organised and
straight talking. What’s the problem we’re trying to solve? What are our
options? Who can help? I rarely get overwhelmed. I love being useful and busy.
6. I also realised I really like playing host. My husband
and I had a big party this year to celebrate 40th birthdays and 10
years being married. We loved having our nearest and dearest all together to celebrate
and dance the night away. But it doesn’t have to be a big party. I’m as happy
bringing old friends together in my kitchen as I am making new connections
through networking.
7. I’ve learnt to be brave. This time last year my
goals were all about finding my voice through writing. Little did I think I’d
be both using my voice for real doing talks in co-working spaces, hosting
training days and going live on social media. The thought of going in front of
the camera terrified me but when you know what you’re talking about and are
passionate about it, it can actually be lots of fun.
8. I’ve learnt not to compare myself to anyone
else. Either in real life or online. Single images rarely tell the whole story.
We’re all unique. I feel people are genuinely curious about coaching and that this
interest is often followed with a suck of air through the teeth and ‘…but there
are so many coaches out there…’. Well, yes. There are. But there’s only one of
me. And I’m the right coach for someone, somewhere. If we all worked to this
philosophy then we would never have enjoyed the iconic music of Michael
Jackson, acting talents of Dame Judi Dench or sportsmanship of Roger Federer as
there are millions of wannabe musicians, actors and sportsmen out there don’t
you know…
9. I’ve learnt that everyone procrastinates. Even
coaches. We’re only human after all, as Rag’n’bone man sang. I know I really
should floss. I’ve done every single exercise in my armoury to overcome it but
I just can’t make it a habit. I’m ok with it. Am not sure my dentist feels the
same way.
10.And
finally, I’ve learnt that if I want something (anything) to change in my life
then I have to take responsibility for making it happen. It could be the
biggest transformation or the smallest step but to assume that anyone else
gives a monkeys is just plain naïve. This year I took control and created the
change I wanted to see and it felt good.
What have you learnt from 2018 that you can use to your advantage in 2019?
