17 years – but do we count this year?
It was while walking my kids to school this morning; I realised my business is 17 years old today! I had forgotten.
Last year I wrote a positive “bring on 2020” type post about my business getting to 16 years.
Well! What happened there?!
So, it is on a beautiful sunny day I sit at my desk and reflect on the last 12 months.
I haven’t pivoted (does anyone else hate that phrase?), I’m not looking for a ‘new normal’ (hate that one too), I am keeping on with my goals set from last year, just moving the timeline a bit. And I’m trying to get over my bitterness about the grants system (I’ll stop there).
What this year has been good for is reflecting. Last year, and early 2020, I spent a lot of time laying the foundations for the type of business I am passionate about running. I spent a lot of time with my coach; reviewing my values; challenging my past, and moving towards my future.
I still value above all things: integrity, honesty, transparency. These are the stones on which I stand. Look at my business, and you will see to the heart of me, and I am very proud of that.
Design and creative disciplines are living through difficult times, professionally at the moment. Too many people are doing DIY creative. That’ll all need to be re-made/re-designed/re-filmed/re-written next year.
Whilst my creative coaching is gaining momentum, the industry is finally starting to realise that the mental health of creative individuals is fundamental. Took too long but we are getting there.
Large agencies are having their bullying ways exposed in the creative press; I do not miss that culture.
I am passionate about supporting fellow creatives. I want to see them all achieve the maximum capability in their roles. I’ve been chatting with some truly talented individuals.
So how do I feel about the next 12 months? I’m feeling surprisingly positive, buoyant almost.
The last recession saw me with a newborn baby, post-natal depression, no family support and barely any maternity leave. 2021 should be a breeze surely, or have I drunk too much craft gin over lockdown?
Seriously, I am a good listener, and I enjoy coffee, so reach out if you need to chat, as a creative or as a business owner looking for help with creativity.
