As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the journey I have taken - on the changes that I have embraced, the challenges I have faced, and the joys that have sustained me.

The examining of things that we’re tethered to and what we might choose to untether from is a profound journey of self-awareness and growth. It requires us to recognise what stabilises us, what keeps us grounded and connected, and what we might need to release to move forward.

In nature, as in leadership, the signs of change are there, some more subtle and some more obvious, and it is important to our growth and development to take the time to notice them.

In our roles as leaders, we are regularly faced with circumstances that involve stepping into something new, perhaps unknown. Our reactions to them can affect the mindset that we are bringing to our leadership and imparting to our teams.

Discovering and exploring what helps us to be, think, and feel creative can reinvigorate our imagination, allowing us to delve deeper into aspects of our minds and bodies that may have been ignored or overlooked.

We all make constant assumptions about people and situations. It is a natural response to making sense of a situation based on our previous experiences, on what we know, and what we don’t know. However, assumptions that go unchecked can lead to huge misunderstandings between people, sometimes making it difficult for people to work together.

With so much taking place in my life, and with the encouragement of those around me, I am consciously practising and making time to challenge complexity, and to find simplicity. It is not always the easiest thing to do but I do deeply believe in its value and importance.

Although it may not often be seen as a strength, our individual differences can enable us us to stand out, give us an edge, and provide a set of unique perspectives and thoughts. What makes us different can influence creativity and drive results.

Balance is the key to life and leadership. It is something that lingers quietly in the background of everything we do in our work, in our interests, and the everyday comings and goings of life.