As the calendar flips to 2025, I find myself at the familiar crossroads of reflection and anticipation. I decided years ago that I wouldn’t do resolutions because they were too easy to walk away from. Instead, each year, I choose a word that serves as my compass, guiding both my professional endeavors and personal growth. In 2024, that word was focus—a commitment to precision, clarity, and purposeful action. Focus helped me transition from a corporate executive role to a full-time keynote speaker and fractional consultant, a leap that required unwavering concentration and intent.
Now, as I step into 2025, my word is CHANGE!
Change signifies transformation, adaptation, and opportunity. It represents a conscious shift in how I approach my work, relationships, and self. It’s not about change for the sake of change but about embracing it as a foundation for meaningful growth.
Professional Change
In my professional world, change means pushing boundaries and reimagining what’s possible. As a keynote speaker, I thrive on sharing insights that inspire others to act boldly.
For that reason, this year, I will:
- Expand My Message: My keynote topics will delve deeper into the transformative power of change. Whether it’s addressing sales leaders on adapting to market shifts or empowering individuals to overcome adversity, my message will evolve to resonate more deeply.
- Diversify My Offerings: Beyond keynotes, I aim to amplify my impact through workshops, virtual sessions, and a thought leadership platform. This requires embracing new skills and formats and stepping outside my comfort zone.
- Champion Change in Organizations: As a fractional consultant, I’ll guide businesses through pivotal transformations. Whether navigating a new go-to-market strategy or recalibrating team dynamics, I’ll show how change can be a catalyst for innovation and resilience.
Personal Change
On a personal level, change is about deepening my connection with my story and strengthening my resolve as a stroke survivor. It’s a journey of continual growth, and this year I commit to:
- Prioritizing Health and Wellness: Adapting my routine to ensure balance and vitality will be non-negotiable. Change begins with self-care. After beating 2 massive strokes, the last thing I want is to find that “stroke 3” is like striking out in baseball!
- Being Open to Vulnerability: Sharing my journey authentically with audiences, friends, and family reinforces the power of resilience. Vulnerability isn’t a weakness; it’s the foundation of true connection.
- Fostering New Relationships: Change means seeking out and embracing relationships that challenge and uplift me. The right people can transform perspectives and spark opportunities. Yes, 205 is more about connecTING and less about connecTIONS!
The Ripple Effect of Change
Change doesn’t just alter the individual—it creates ripples. My commitment to change in 2025 is about inspiring others to see its potential. Too often, we resist change because it feels uncertain or uncomfortable. But as I’ve learned, the greatest transformations are born in the space between what’s familiar and what’s possible.
Building a Foundation for Positive Change
Here are three principles I’ll use to make change a cornerstone of 2025:
- Service Over Self: The ultimate purpose of change is to serve others. Whether through speaking, consulting, or mentoring, I’ll focus on helping others navigate their own transformations.
- Growth Over Perfection: Change isn’t about getting it all right immediately—it’s about evolving. I’ll celebrate progress over perfection in all its forms.
- Adaptability Over Rigidity: Plans are important, but flexibility allows us to pivot when opportunities arise. This year, I’ll say yes to what aligns and let go of what doesn’t.
Looking Ahead
The word change carries weight. It challenges, it stretches, and ultimately, it transforms. As I embrace this word for 2025, I’m reminded of a simple truth: change is inevitable, but growth is intentional. This year, I’m choosing growth. I’m choosing to lean into the unknown and let it shape me into someone stronger, wiser, and more impactful. Here’s to a year of positive change—for me, and all of us.
What will change mean for you in 2025? What’s YOUR word for 2025?
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