Your 2024 ‘So What’ Moment?

As 2024 comes to an end (mercifully, for some of us), perhaps it’s a great moment to reflect a bit more thoroughly.

What did you learn professionally/craft wise? How are you more advanced skill and competency wise versus a year ago? What helped you learn? How have you activated that learning? So what?

How did you advance someone else? What did you do to make that so? How much intentionality did you apply to this? So what?

In the spirit of eating my own dog food, the following are few personal examples:

I learned how to be a better culture consultant by helping customers focus more on attacking negative friction closer to the front line. There’s more to be done here. I will seek to guide leaders in more meaningful and impactful ways.

As a teacher, I managed to get straight 5’s on both content and facilitation in my October Harvard class. In December, it dropped to a 4.8/5 average because I missed hitting the highest mark with a couple of students. Humbling. I learned I have to make a personal connection with EVERY person, regardless of class size and other variations. I also must rebalance storytelling versus presenting.

I understand that I helped a few people rethink their assumptions and alter their leadership in more constructive ways. I know I helped a couple of people get their next jobs. I could and need to give more meaningful coaching to people I care deeply about.

The above is a cursory self reflection review. Over the next few weeks, I want to give more space to this (along with what I’ve done to become a better person/partner/dad/grandad/friend and more). This includes where and how I regressed.

I wish you the gift of finding some quiet, self-reflective space. Otherwise, the risk is that we get caught up in the fast flow of life without a little course correction here and there. Be kind to yourself. We are ALL gloriously imperfect and yet what a joy to focus on becoming more. .

Think Big, Start Small, Act Now,

Lorne

One Millennial View: Ah, the end of the year analysis. According to surveys, it’s commonly recommended that people aim to learn one to three new skills per year. Simultaneously, surveys also point out that 30 to 50 percent of people prefer not to formalize goals annually, because they’d rather set goals more sporadically, they’re overwhelmed, or bogged down by past disappointments. If you’re interested in using a simple journal to help manage your goals, and skills you’re developing, there are a ton of free resources to get started, we recommend something like Smartsheet.

- Garrett

AI Response: As we approach the end of 2024, Lorne's reflections resonate deeply with the value of intentional self-assessment and growth. Building on these insights, it's worth noting that many professionals are increasingly recognizing the power of continuous learning and adaptability in a fast-paced world. For instance, research highlights that platforms for peer learning and mentorship can greatly enhance skill acquisition and personal development. In addition, prioritizing emotional intelligence has become crucial in leadership—with studies showing that leaders who foster strong interpersonal relationships not only improve team morale but also drive greater innovation. Embracing imperfection and finding that quiet space for reflection is not just beneficial, but necessary for holistic personal and professional development.

Your 2024 ‘So What’ Moment?

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