Looking back at 2024

This time last year what was I doing?

I was leaving an uninspiring part-time job which I’d taken in the belief that it would be fun and embracing the uplift in my self-employed role (I’ve been a coach, facilitator and trainer for over 20 years). Another plate which I was spinning was the rollout of making the administration of the Sailing Club smoother and less labour intensive for all involved in the longer term.

There was a lot of self-reflection and learning; not only the new online platform for WSC (tech is not my favourite place!) but also research for a new piece of work and attempting to promote the Summer paddleboarding lessons and events.

I'm pleased to say, looking back, it all happened: the online platform 'WebCollect' worked and is all set for easy renewal process this year; my new piece of work was such a success that I'm returning to the client again this year doing the next step with a wonderful Senior Leadership Team; the Sailing Club ran smoothly and we had many new members join and embrace the community, with social sailing, paddle polo and windsurf Sundays proving all the more popular. Paddleboarding sessions took off and we even did a paddleboarding and yoga retreat day - which was not only a first for me but amazing too!

It’s funny isn't it? When asked, it’s not unusual to think we haven't achieved much but when we take the time to reflect we can often surprise ourselves and realise that we conquered mountains.

Of course the events I've shared here are all professional achievements, however the roles we fulfil personally cannot be forgotten. Often our achievements in being a parent, friend, sibling, spouse, son, daughter, cousin, grandparent, employer, employee, colleague, customer, neighbour, instructor are hugely impactful and often don't get the acknowledgement they deserve. It is not always about big goals or visible achievements - it's the impact we have on others around us by just being us.

I'm quite content with my 2024. Admittedly I went to more funerals than I would have liked to, had things I didn't or couldn't do, made some choices that perhaps weren't my best, managed to still forget birthdays and generally arrive by the skin of my teeth, forever apologising for being late!

Looking back, I've actually achieved lots this year!

My 2024 takeaway

Outside of family stuff, if there's one thing that has made my heart truly sing this year it's been the paddleboarding and the people it has led me to meet.

Becoming an instructor and introducing over fifty newbies safely to the sport then seeing many of them independently progressing and enjoying it beyond their lesson(s) has given me incredible job satisfaction. My own progression on the board has been a fulfilling and rewarding journey too. I've gone from instructor to journey leader and coach, from participating in a regular 5km event to signing up to a 40km endurance race. I’ve upgraded my trusty board to a super-slick racing board (and I love taking it out!) and met some wonderful coaches that have springboarded my own skills beyond my expectations.

I can't wait to get stuck in to 2025...

Now my month of rest and hibernation (aka January) has come to an end, I’m looking forward to what this season on the water will bring.

Let me know if you want to paddleboard with me this year and what you'd like to do.