Past reflections and future intentions

Photo of a woman in a pale blue top smiling at the camera. She is stood in a garden in front of a brick wall covered in ivy.

I’ve been reflecting on the things I did in the last 12 months, and making a list of the things I intend to do more of in the next!

I thought I’d share my own reflections and intentions as a way of staying accountable (it’s so easy to lose my way when I get busy!) And maybe it will encourage you to do the same.

What I did in 2022

  • I really enjoyed working as a business advisor and helping lots of businesses grow on the six-month ScaleUp 360 programme, which finished at the beginning of the year.
  • I loved working with people who are passionate about what they do; and are doing great things, saving the planet or making their corner of the world a better place.
  • Barnsley College student, Eleanor, completed her year placement with me and flew the nest to Leeds University to study graphic design.
  • I continued to support local mental health charity, Creative Recovery, as Chair. 
  • I completed a Trustee Leadership Programme course and am now a member of the Institute of Leadership & Management.
  • I resumed in-person Crafty Business Network meetings after a long Covid-imposed hiatus.I took on my fabulous new office space in the DMC 01.
  • I’ve also been busy outside of work. In January Nick and I set a wedding date and we got married in April, blending our families together in one home in November. 
  • I’ve loved being in nature more and becoming more environmentally aware. In May, I stayed in an amazing eco-friendly AirBnB and came home resolved to be more efficient, make less waste and tread lightly. And, then I was greatly inspired by Nick’s Mum, who we sadly said goodbye to in December. She devoted her life to fighting for the planet and was determined to make a difference, taking Nick to Greenham Common Peace Camp in the 80s, for example. 

I was very busy with one thing and another in 2022 and – on reflection – lost my way a little a little at work. It’s fine, it happens – I am human after all!

Here’s what I want to do in 2023

  • I want to work with more lovely people who make me feel happy!
  • I’d like to recalibrate my business and ensure I focus on attracting more of my ideal clients and working on projects which give me a buzz.
  • I’d like to become a BCorp (if that’s possible) I’ll have to investigate!
  • I want to focus much more on being a green, sustainable, community-aware business – watch this space people! 
  • I’d also like to encourage clients to think of the environment in their marketing.
  • I’d like to help people with their wellbeing. (I’m due to complete a Mental Health First Aid qualification in January so that I’m properly prepared to make a start on this.)

What about you?

I really hope you feel able build on your business successes of 2022, learn from any mis-steps and stride out with renewed confidence and ambition in 2023. What are your reflections and resolutions?