Well, That Was Quite a Year! Reflections, Reality Checks, and Ready for 2025
Well, guys, here we are at the final newsletter of 2024, and what a ride it's been! From MESLC to METLC, STEM MENA, MELLC, and articles, podcasts, Webinars, trips and conferences galore, 2024 was something else.
In January, I wrote out my motto for the year: "Do More in 2024." Looking back now, I have to laugh because, wow, did I manifest that one into existence! Those of you who've been on this wild journey with me have watched me embrace this challenge (and yes, occasionally question my sanity along the way).
Some people make New Year's resolutions. Well, I do something a bit different. Each year, I write a motto on the board above my desk. It sits there, staring at me every day, pushing me forward.
For 2025, I'm going with "Thrive in 2025" - let's see what kind of adventures that brings!
But listen, I've got to keep it real with you. This year hasn't just been about ticking boxes and achieving goals. Sometimes, life throws you curveballs that no amount of planning can prepare you for. One of the biggest lessons 2024 taught me? Plans are great, but life has its own schedule!
Mid-year, I had to hit pause and take time to heal from grief. Some projects had to go on the back burner, and you know what? That was exactly what needed to happen.
So here's the thing: if you're sitting there looking back at 2024 feeling a bit disappointed that some of your plans didn't work out, I want you to remember something: you're still here, which means you're literally undefeated at life! How amazing is that? You've got another chance to go after those dreams, but this time, maybe with a bit more kindness to yourself along the way.
To those who celebrate, have yourself a very Merry Christmas! And to everyone reading this, here's to a happy and prosperous 2025. May it bring you all the good stuff, with plenty of grace for the challenging bits, too. I love you all, and I mean that.
Check out my first solo podcast episode for the Teach Middle East Podcast.
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Registration is open for the Middle East School Leadership Conference 2025, which will take place February 5-6 at the Al Habtoor Grand Hotel Dubai Marina.
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Executive Principal at Amity International School Abu Dhabi
4dI hope you thrive AND make a positive difference in 2025. Wishing you a healthy, happy and successful year ahead.
Leisa Grace Wilson how come you never took me out on your yacht? LOL. Happy holidays to you and yours!
International Business Development Manager @OxEd and Assessment
1wThank you for all the events and for your genuine commitment to education and support for all of us involved. Looking forward to Thrive in 2025!! I agree a little more kindness towards ourselves and every one else goes a long way 😊 I once or maybe twice have said to you that you are ‘The voice of Education in the UAE’ and I still stand by that! Stay awesome 🤩
Head of EAL and Multilingualism Multilingualism Regional Coordinator iSP Education Consultancy Certified NLP Life Coach
1wLoved this real episode. Thank you for bringing your knowledge, experience and light into our teaching world and supporting us all with it. I look forward to the upcoming podcasts in 2025... enjoy your break.
Lead Learner at the Amity School Dubai. Change maker. Lifelong mentor - students, teachers. Professional friendly guide - Principals. Skill sparkler. Innovator in Curriculum Design.
1wStay happy.Stay amazing Leisa… alive with courage and grace to thrive in ‘25❣️