2024: A Year of Growth, Grit, and Owning Your Career (and Everything in Between)

As 2024 comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on what an absolute rollercoaster of a year it’s been – not just for me, but for so many of the ambitious professionals I’ve coached.

Life often feels like a constant juggle: work, family, personal goals, and everything in between. Some days, you’re on top of the world. Other days, you’re wondering if you’re even moving forward.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned – from my own journey and the stories of my coachees – it’s this: growth isn’t easy, grit doesn’t come naturally, and ownership isn’t handed to you.

But when you embrace these three pillars, your career and life transform in ways you never thought possible.

The Challenges of 2024

This year was one of reckoning for many professionals. Economic uncertainty, evolving workplace norms, and increasing competition left many feeling stuck or undervalued.

For me, the first half of the year was tough – business slowed down dramtically, my kids felt misdirected, and I was emotionally spent. There were moments I seriously considered giving up.

My coachees faced their own battles:

• Redundancies: Over 10 coachees started 2024 in roles they loved but found themselves unexpectedly job hunting. The emotional toll was heavy, but it also helped them rediscover their resilience.
• Toxic Environments: Many endured workplaces filled with microaggressions, unmanageable workloads, and a lack of support that drained their confidence.
• Fear of Change: Whether it was switching industries, negotiating for a promotion, or starting a side hustle, the fear of failure held many back.

Despite these hurdles, one thing stood out to me: their determination.

The Turning Point

The shift happened when they stopped waiting for validation from others and began carving their own paths. Taking ownership of their growth allowed their grit to shine. Here’s what I coach them on—and what might work for you too:

1. Clarity First Many coachees felt overwhelmed by options but unsure of their direction. By pausing to clarify their values, strengths, and priorities, they found focus. When you know what matters most to you, decisions become easier.
2. Action Over Perfection Fear of “not being ready” can lead to inaction. One coachee doubted her ability to step into a management role but applied anyway—and nailed it. Taking imperfect action is often the key to growth.
3. Building a Personal Brand This year, many realised that showcasing their expertise isn’t bragging – it’s essential. Sharing stories on LinkedIn, attending networking events, and connecting with mentors gave them the visibility to create new opportunities.
4. The Power of Boundaries For my working parent coachees, trying to “do it all” left them drained. By setting clear boundaries at work and home, they focused on what truly mattered—and delivered better results.

My Own Journey

The first half of my year was brutal. Business slowed to a crawl, I felt stretched thin by family responsibilities, and I questioned whether I should continue coaching. I had two choices: get up or give up.

The second half? I chose to get up.

I took control. I stopped blaming external circumstances and focused on what I could change. I reconnected with my purpose, refocused my efforts, and leaned into growth. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.

So, I'd love to share the action plan I will use to help my coachees to OWN 2025. I hope it helps you get started too.

Your 2025 Action Plan

No matter how 2024 went for you, 2025 is an opportunity to own your next chapter. Here’s how to get started:

1️⃣ Reflect on Your Wins and Lessons Celebrate how far you’ve come. Write down:

• Your proudest achievements in 2024.
• The challenges you faced and what they taught you.

Example: One coachee realised that losing her job was the catalyst she needed to finally start her consulting business—a career shift she’d been dreaming of for years.

2️⃣ Identify What’s Holding You Back. What’s stopping you from reaching your goals? Fear of failure? Lack of clarity? A toxic work environment? Once you name it, you can start working to overcome it.

3️⃣ Get Clear on Your Goals Ask yourself:

• What do I want to achieve in 2025?
• What skills or experiences do I need to get there?
• What’s one step I can take now to get started?

4️⃣ Build Your Plan Break big goals into smaller, manageable milestones. Set deadlines and hold yourself accountable. For example, if you want a promotion, start documenting your wins and schedule a conversation with your manager.

5️⃣ Invest in Yourself The best investment you can make is in your own growth. Whether it’s learning a new skill, attending workshops, or working with a coach, prioritizing yourself will pay dividends in every area of your life.

6️⃣ Give Yourself Grace There’s no perfect way to grow. Like parenthood, your career is a messy, evolving journey. What matters is showing up, staying resilient, and learning along the way.

Your Career, Your Story

2024 pushed me to rethink my priorities, face uncertainty, and take action on what mattered most. And I’ve seen the same transformation in my coachees.

If there’s one thing I want to leave you with, it’s this: you are in control of your career.

So, as we move into 2025, ask yourself:

• What’s the one bold move I’ll make for my career this year?
• How will I show up for myself, my goals, and my growth?

Write it down. Commit to it. And take that first step.

Here’s to owning your career, showing up boldly, and making 2025 your most intentional and rewarding year yet. You’ve got this. 💪

What’s your next step? Let’s talk about it—I’d love to hear what you’re planning for 2025!

If you need help to get started, reach out. Let's see how my +24 years of senior corporate experience + 7 years of career coaching can help you.

#careers #ownyourcareer #selfdevelopment