December is here, and for those of us here in NZ and Australia, it’s the start of summer—a season full of warmth, longer days, and the promise of renewal. But as the year winds down, it’s also a time for reflection.
I want to ask you: What hard stuff did you do this year?
For me, one of my biggest challenges has been stepping out of my comfort zone to post regularly on social media. As someone who thrives on face-to-face connection and storytelling, putting myself out there online felt daunting. It wasn’t just about crafting the posts—it was about dealing with self-doubt and the persistent whisper of imposter syndrome.
But I finally started. And you know what? Each post has become a step toward something bigger—a way to connect with more people, share my message, and help others overcome their fears too.
The Hard Stuff We Face
This time of year is perfect for looking back on what we’ve tackled—and what we’ve avoided. Maybe you gave that big presentation you were dreading, had a tough conversation with a client, or finally said “yes” to an opportunity that scared you. Or maybe, like me, you faced an internal battle, pushing yourself to do the hard but necessary things that help you grow.
The truth is, the hard stuff is where we grow the most. It’s where we prove to ourselves what we’re capable of.
Lessons from a Million Steps
Eighteen months ago, I walked the Camino de Santiago, an 800-kilometre pilgrimage that taught me how to keep going—even when it felt impossible. Every step, no matter how small, brought me closer to the finish. Some days, those steps were joyful; other days required I dug deep to find that something extra.
Life—and business—can feel a lot like the Camino. Progress doesn’t always come in leaps and bounds. It comes step by step, especially when we’re doing the hard stuff.
And now, as I train to walk the Camino again in May 2025, I’m reminded of the importance of reflection. Before we can move forward, we need to acknowledge how far we’ve come.
Your Year in Review
So, what about you:
- What hard stuff did you do this year?
- What lessons did you learn from it?
- What’s one hard thing you’ve been avoiding but know will be worth tackling in 2025?
Let’s take time to celebrate summer and our wins—big and small—and gear up for the challenges ahead. Just like the Camino, life is a journey of a million steps. Every one of them counts.