2024: A Year of Growth and Change

My Personal 2024 Take: It's Never Too Late to Start Something Purposeful

For the longest time, my identity was defined by my corporate profession—my job title and monthly paycheck.

This changed abruptly in January with upheavals at my previous workplace, leading me to engage in deep soul-searching about my true purpose. I questioned who I was beyond my professional setting. Why had I spent two decades in this profession? Was it for money, power, satisfaction, or pride? Was I in the wrong profession altogether, or worse, was I a fraud?

Vulnerability transforms people. It forces us to confront our deepest fears, either making or breaking us.

The situation wasn't helped by the constant stream of well-intended but often misaligned messages about alternative careers and reskilling programs for people over 40.

The abrupt loss of my dog of 15 years, who had been with me through thick and thin, only amplified the emotional turbulence. Yet, through this chaos, a supportive family network alongside a spiritual awakening became my anchor.

Personal Growth

Over several months, I rediscovered my purpose, rebuilt my confidence, and reignited my passion for marketing and communications.

The turning point came when my first two clients approached me during my transition phase. I interpreted this as a sign from higher powers that events were unfolding as intended.

The journey hasn't been all roses—instead, it's been about clearing weeds to rebuild the garden. Rather than wallowing in self-pity about unfairness, I chose to take everything in stride. Looking at the bigger picture helped me realize things could be worse, and there's never a perfect time for transitions—they happen when they need to.

Projects & Accomplishments

Working on client projects restored my sense of purpose and confidence. Returning to speaking engagements and receiving recognition for personal accomplishments felt gratifying, but I realized what truly matters isn't the recognition itself but the journey leading to it—the process of contributing to the industry and community driven by purpose and passion.

The true measure isn't found in social media metrics but in the impact of our contributions to the broader community measured through valuable connections. Everything else is simply vanity metrics.

Impact & Connections

People often ask about Mad About Marketing Consulting and the significance of the money-on-tree icon in our logo.

 I've always believed in marketing's crucial role within the broader go-to-market strategy, including sales and product alignment. However, over the years, marketing has often been diluted to flashy brand campaigns, spectacular events, and pleasant messaging that fails to address core customer problems. Many initiatives simply check boxes or follow management directives without addressing real customer needs.

Our logo symbolizes value growing from effective marketing strategy, enabled by the right combination of people, processes, and platforms. When allowed to flourish, this creates value for customers and communities, which naturally leads to profit. Companies should prioritize value creation over profit as their reason for existence.

Learning & Skills

For too long, I had neglected my family and close friendships—relationships that had weathered countless storms with me. My previous corporate role had consumed me entirely. Starting my entrepreneurial journey, I recognized that relationships would naturally evolve, with some strengthening and others fading based on authentic connections.

I made a conscious decision to avoid falling into the same mindless cycle of endless work without quality time with loved ones. This balance is particularly crucial for business owners, where the line between work and life often blurs. There's no true "off switch" when you're running your own business—you can't completely disconnect from ownership responsibilities.

This reality makes burnout an even more pressing concern. The key lies in mastering the art of setting boundaries—knowing when to engage with work during holidays and carving out dedicated quiet time for loved ones.

While I'm still working toward this equilibrium, having access to a supportive network has been invaluable, particularly the mentorship of seasoned business owners who share their hard-won wisdom.

During this year's transition, I deliberately focused on digital learning and certifications from international institutions that had previously enriched my professional journey. I chose a balanced curriculum of technical, psychological, and spiritual courses to restore equilibrium to my overall mindset and perspective.

My spiritual practice has strengthened my intuition, enhancing my ability to navigate complex situations and relationships when pure logic or facts prove insufficient.

Forward Vision

Relationships and spirituality have taken on profound new meaning compared to a year ago. By relationships, I mean connections with people and living beings who truly matter—those we'd want present in our final moments or those who've shared meaningful experiences with us, however brief.

I've realized that job titles and industry accolades aren't the legacy I wish to leave behind. Instead, it's the positive impact and good deeds that ripple through the lives of those around me that truly matter.

Future Focus

As I continue scaling my business, I aim to secure more retainer projects that will enable me to work with talented individuals on a long-term basis, fostering their growth and helping them achieve their ambitions.

Daily meditation and spiritual practice have become essential routines that provide tremendous benefits. As a natural planner, I'm learning to balance strategic preparation with flexibility in client acquisition. Some factors remain beyond our control, making it crucial to maintain equilibrium during both peak and quiet periods.

Gratitude & Acknowledgment

I remain deeply grateful for the support of my loved ones, business networks, and what some call universal energies. Good actions eventually yield positive results, and paying it forward is essential—not for immediate returns, but for the purpose and fulfillment found in the process.

So here's to 2025—I'm ready for whatever lies ahead!

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