EP24 Reflecting on 2023, finding Gratitude and setting Intentions for 2024

Welcome back to Ditch The Debate Podcast! I’m Taniel, your host, and today, we’re diving into the depths of self-discovery and growth as we reflect on the whirlwind that was 2023. Buckle up for a solo episode filled with resilience, unexpected challenges, and the power of setting intentions for the shiny new year that lies ahead.

Looking Back on 2023: A Rollercoaster of Growth

As I revisit the chapters of 2023, I can’t help but marvel at the twists and turns that defined the past 12 months. January 2023 feels like a distant memory, but as I delved into my journal, the memories flooded back. The year started with a singular focus on the word “kind,” a seemingly natural trait for me. Little did I know that life would put my kindness to the test repeatedly.

Living in South Africa, an environment plagued by hostility, negativity, and gender-based violence, presented a unique set of challenges. Navigating a hostile world, I found myself questioning the simplicity of kindness in the face of adversity. Despite the tests and unkind encounters, I held onto my chosen word, making it a guiding principle throughout the year.

The professional landscape mirrored the tumultuous personal journey. Starting the year with a digital marketing contract, I soon realized the need for change. Unhappiness loomed, and in March, the rug was pulled from under me as the contract ended abruptly. A pivotal decision emerged: continue the traditional career path, sacrificing precious moments with my three small kids, or embrace the uncertainty of entrepreneurship, choosing flexibility and presence over financial stability.

Opting for the latter, I entered uncharted territory, battling a scarcity mindset and grappling with a loss of identity. Balancing entrepreneurship with the demands of motherhood brought forth a new set of challenges. The podcast, a venture born out of my introverted nature, became a milestone, proving that I could overcome self-doubt and navigate the uncharted waters of content creation.

What I Learned in 2023: Lessons in Growth and Mindset

The journey of 2023 unfolded with numerous lessons, each leaving an indelible mark on my personal and professional growth. Personal development became a constant companion, with mentors offering nuggets of wisdom at every turn. The evolving nature of healing and growth became evident – a continuous process of plugging one hole while another surfaced.

A revelation dawned: planning is a game-changer. With a household, three kids, an infant business, and myriad responsibilities, meticulous planning became non-negotiable. Incorporating life strategies into my planning proved fruitful, making the chaos a bit more manageable.

Addressing a deep-seated scarcity mindset became a priority. I granted myself permission to desire, pursue, and attain any level of success, debunking the generational imprint that women should settle for just enough. A crucial lesson emerged: it is safe to be a wealthy woman.

Being present in the moment became a transformative practice. Initially viewing time spent on maternal responsibilities as a hindrance to productivity, I reframed it as an opportunity to cherish irreplaceable moments. The shift from self-criticism to self-appreciation marked a significant milestone by the end of 2023.

The podcast, a testament to stepping out of my comfort zone, underscored a vital lesson: mindset is everything. Embracing the power of intentions and consciousness, I debunked the self-sabotaging narratives that often plague our minds. The Henry Ford quote echoed in my journey – belief shapes reality.

Entrepreneurship proved challenging, requiring a mindset reframing for someone accustomed to the stability of employment. Trusting myself and the universe became the driving force, fueled by a passion and purpose larger than personal ambitions.

Finding Gratitude: Even in the Negatives

As I look back on 2023, gratitude emerges as a guiding force. Even amidst the challenges and negatives, health takes center stage as a major topic for appreciation. Health issues, though not major, offered a newfound respect for the intricate connection between body and mind. Another trip around the sun intensified my love for and dedication to well-being.

Setting Intentions for 2024: A Purposeful Approach

After the post-mortem of 2023, it’s time to face 2024 with honesty, rawness, and genuine intentions. Steering clear of clichéd New Year’s resolutions, let’s focus on setting powerful intentions, planning goals, and crafting action plans. A workbook is available in the shownotes, providing a practical guide for your journey.

Consider these focal points:

1. Define Your Top 5 Goals: Outline the key aspirations for the year.
2. Let Go of What Didn’t Serve You: Identify aspects from 2023 that hindered your growth, committing to leave them behind.
3. Commit to Positive Actions: List activities aligning with your goals, propelling you forward.
4. Confront Fears: Acknowledge fears associated with change and growth.
5. Embrace Excitement: Identify the exhilarating aspects of making positive changes.

Conclude the exercise by writing a letter from your future self, encapsulating how you envision your life 12 months from now.

Conclusion: Eyes and Heart Wide Open for 2024

As I step into 2024, uncertainties loom, but the difference is palpable. Facing the unknown with a passion for coaching and a dedication to helping women is a privilege I won’t trade. The energy required for 2024 is substantial, especially with three distinct personalities in junior school vying for attention. Intentions, goals, and focus are crystal clear, emphasizing the uniqueness each individual brings to the world.

Remember, you are unique, and the world needs you. Embrace the journey, and let’s conquer 2024 together. You’ve got this!