Losing my dad this past June was a profound experience, and much of the spring was spent supporting him through surgery and helping him transition from his lifelong home to assisted living. These were moments of deep connection, care, and love that I will always hold dear.
At the same time, I faced my own health challenges, a reminder of how important it is to care for ourselves even as we support those we love. Through all of this, life kept moving forward. My work with the Townsend Leadership Program (TLP), E4, Executive Coaching, and Corporate Training carried on, and I am incredibly grateful to my clients and community for their patience and trust as I navigated these personal challenges.
For several years now, I’ve found catharsis and joy in raising monarch butterflies. Watching these delicate creatures transform from tiny caterpillars into beautiful butterflies is a deeply moving experience that never loses its magic. It reminds me of life’s cycles of growth, difficult change, and freedom of renewal. The process requires patience and care, but it ultimately results in something extraordinary—a lesson I carried with me throughout this year.
Another joy filled time for me was returning to the stables. Each Friday, I work with Knobby, a special horse that needs extra care and attention. The time I spend with him is a gift—an opportunity to focus on presence, patience, trust, and quiet connection. Working with Knobby and raising monarch butterflies have both reminded me of the beauty in small, intentional acts and the power of persistence and hope.
Looking back at this year, I am reminded of the power of resilience. It isn’t about pushing through every obstacle with sheer force; it’s about showing up consistently, giving myself grace even when it feels like everything around you is shifting.
Planning Forward
As I step into the new year, I’m filled with excitement for what’s ahead. One of the projects I’m most looking forward to is launching a modernized leadership membership program. My vision is to create a space where leaders can come together to share ideas, grow, and equip themselves with the tools they need to thrive in today’s complex world.
This isn’t just a professional endeavor—it feels deeply personal. It’s a chance to take everything I’ve learned, especially over the past year, and pour it into something meaningful and transformative.
For those who are also taking time to reflect on their year, I encourage you to ask yourself:
What were the moments of growth, even in hardship?
What are you most grateful for as the year comes to a close?
What dreams and goals are lighting your way into the new year?
Life is full of seasons, each with its own lessons. As we close one chapter and open another, let’s do so with intention, courage, and hope. Here’s to resilience, renewal, and a year ahead filled with possibility.
Remember, gratitude is a practice that takes nurturing, especially in tough times. As leaders, embracing this practice not only enriches our personal well-being but also influences those we lead by creating a culture of appreciation.
I encourage you to pause and embrace the power of gratitude in your own leadership journey. It’s not only about looking back but also about recognizing the value of every step forward.
Remember, your leadership matters.
