Turning 2024 Bloopers Into 2025 Success

As I sat sipping my third cup of coffee (let’s be honest, surviving Canadian winters requires more caffeine than Dubai’s endless sunshine ever did), I couldn’t help but reflect on how much this year has felt like starting a new Netflix show. Moving from the fast-paced corporate world of Dubai to the unexplored areas of Canada was like switching from an action thriller to a feel-good drama with plenty of plot twists.

New environment, new challenges, and yes, the occasional "What have I gotten myself into?" moments. Reflecting on this year has been less about checking boxes and more about seeing how I’ve adapted, stumbled, and eventually thrived.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned this year, it’s that every chapter adds something special to your story.        

The Wins - Your Career Oscars

Remember that one big project you led successfully? Or got an appreciation email from your big boss on meeting unusual short deadlines. These moments are your trophies, be it landing a new job, earning a promotion, or just staying sane during chaos.

Think of these achievements as scenes from your favorite movie. If you were the director, what would you replicate in the sequel? Was it your immaculate networking skills, your ability to learn new tech tools, or perhaps the confidence in your communication (let’s not kid ourselves, it was more about discovering a better coffee blend)?

Don't just celebrate the wins, study them. Success leaves clues. What worked? Why did it work? How can you make sure it works again?

The “Oh No!” Moments

Let’s admit it, there may be moments from 2024 we’d rather sweep under the carpet. The poorly timed email reply-all, the awkward interview answer, or the stretch goal that turned out to be more of a stumble goal.

But here’s the thing: failing is part of the training towards success. Like any final reel you see, there is behind-the-scenes video as well. Think of these missteps as your personal blooper reel.

Ask yourself - what didn’t work and why? Did you overcommit or failed to set boundaries? Or maybe underestimate the power of preparation? Instead of replaying these moments with regret, replay them with curiosity.

Planning for 2025: The Road Ahead

Now that you’ve audited your year, it’s time to chart the course for 2025. Think of it as upgrading your car’s GPS. The destination (career excellence) remains the same, but the route might need adjustment.

Pro Tip: Reflecting on lessons learned isn’t just about what you did, it’s about how you’ve grown.

Instead of vague resolutions like “be better at work,” aim for something concrete: “Complete a professional certification by June” or “Build meaningful connections with 50 new professionals on LinkedIn.”        

And don’t forget to pack a toolkit:

• Confidence: Your engine - powering you to move forward with strength.
• Consistency: Your GPS - keeping you focused toward your goals.
• Commitment: Your fuel tank - ensuring you stay driven to go the distance.

I'm Ruheena Kabir, with 20+ years in corporate HR, I have helped professionals from diverse backgrounds and profiles in their career excellence journey.

If you need help designing your career blueprint, you’re not alone. Whether it’s resume tweaks, LinkedIn strategies, or interview preparation, let’s connect and craft your 2025 success story together.