Finding Gratitude in Reflection
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. Reflection allows me to take stock of how far I have come, what I am grateful for, and what I am looking forward to welcoming in the year ahead. It also provides a moment to acknowledge what I am ready to leave behind, letting go of what no longer serves me. This year has been one of transition, settling, and renewal - a year that has reminded me of the power of place, friendship, and purpose.
At the heart of this reflection is a core message: gratitude is not found only in the highlights or milestones but often in the quieter, smaller moments. It is through the lens of gratitude that we can uncover the richness of our experiences and deepen our connection with ourselves, others, and our leadership.
Finding Gratitude Begins at Home
This year marked a significant shift in my life as I settled into a change in my living situation. With my daughters now grown and creating homes of their own, the family home has become a place they return to, rather than a place they live in daily. Recognising and embracing this change has made my home feel different but very much my own, while remaining a space where my family feels welcome, safe, and at home.
This transition was, at times, difficult but necessary and meaningful and has allowed me to create a space that reflects who I am today, a space where I feel safe. These changes have had a profound impact, and have made the house feel more comfortable for me now. Through reflection, I have found gratitude in these changes, appreciating the privilege of having a home that reflects my sense of self and offers comfort and peace. It’s a place where I can truly be at home with myself.
The Gift of Friendship and Shared Experiences
One of the greatest gifts of this year has been my friendship with a neighbor who shares my love of the outdoors and the Downs. Our regular walks, often at dawn or dusk, have become a cherished time. We have shared foggy mornings that lift to reveal breathtaking landscapes, and evening walks that bring with it the beauty of fading light as day rolls into night.
These walks are more than just physical exercise, they are moments of connection, reflection, and joy. They remind me of the simple yet profound power of companionship and the importance of nurturing relationships that bring us closer to ourselves and the world around us. Through quiet reflection, I’ve found immense gratitude in these shared experiences and in the steady presence of a trusted friend.
Revitalising My Brand and Renewing My Purpose
Professionally, this year has been one of renewal and focus. With the support of Coco O’Brien and the team at The Conscious Marketing Group, I have revitalised my brand, bringing renewed energy and confidence to my work as a leadership partner, mentor, and coach. The choice of brick red as the central colour for the brand feels deeply personal, connecting me to the brickworks that overlooked my childhood home. This vibrant, bold colour reflects the strength and clarity I feel in my work, and in my podcast, Leaders in Conversation with Anni Townend™, a space where leaders can share their stories and experiences of life and leadership.
This renewal has extended to Collaboration Equation™, the initiative I co-founded with Lucy Kidd. This year, we have grown our community of collaborators and held our first-ever Collaborators Day at The Grain Store in Lewes. This gathering brought together a group of people we have walked and worked with over the years, creating a space to share, listen, and inspire. Highlights included a shared meal, a short vocal experience, and a walk on the South Downs Way, an embodiment of the collaborative spirit we strive to cultivate.
How Growth and Connection Create Gratitude
One of the most valuable lessons this year has taught me is that growth often emerges from gratitude. By reflecting on the progress of Collaboration Equation™, my brand refresh, and my transitioning home life, I have come to appreciate not only the outcomes but also the relationships and efforts that have made these changes possible. Exhibiting at the Global Leaders Diversity and Inclusion Forum in London for the second year running was another highlight. This event allowed us to showcase our work, learn from others, and engage in meaningful conversations about the future of leadership and collaboration.
Gratitude has also shown me the importance of staying curious and open. The core mindsets of Curiosity, Care, and Courage have guided my work and inspired me to approach challenges with a sense of possibility rather than limitation.
Looking Ahead: Gratitude as a Foundation for the Future
As I reflect on this year, I am filled with excitement for what lies ahead. Professionally, I look forward to continuing Leaders in Conversation with Anni Townend™ and growing Collaboration Equation™. Personally, I am excited to deepen my connection to my home, the Downs, my family, and the community around me.
Finding Gratitude in Personal Reflection
As you reflect on your year, I leave you with an invitation to consider how you can find gratitude in your own journey by asking:
What are you proud of having achieved this year?
What challenges have you faced, and how have they shaped you?
Who has supported you, and how have you expressed your gratitude?
What have you learned, and how can you apply those lessons moving forward?
What has brought you joy this year, and how can you cultivate more of it?
What do you love doing, and how can you integrate it into your daily life?
What are you ready to leave behind as you move into the new year?
I would love to hear your answers and thoughts. Please do get in touch via my website or on my social media platforms, LinkedIn and Instagram. I look forward to connecting with you.