Reflections in the New Year
As 2024 wraps up, I’m reflecting on the lessons that shaped 2024 — Seven is my lucky number so sharing my top seven - hope some resonate with you:
1️⃣ Gen AI’s Impact
AI is the game-changer you knew you needed. From refining research and elevating client prep to automating the mundane, it has transformed how we work. But trust and security aren’t optional—they’re foundational. Let’s harness its real AI’MPACT wisely.
2️⃣ Authentic Relationships Win
Strong brands endure because they’re built on growing trust—being real, intentional, and consistent. Client events, when done right, aren’t boondoggles—they’re trustdoggles, creating lasting connections and reinforcing belief in what you bring to the table.
3️⃣ Change Agents Are Like Mary Poppins
They show up to solve problems, disrupt a bit, inspire growth (with a smidge of controversy) and help navigate hard decisions. The magic lies in knowing when the work is done— let them finish strong, celebrate success, and soar on to the next transformation with grace.
4️⃣ Mind the Manipulation—and the Negative Nellies
Perceptions are powerful, and gossip is fast triggered. Social media and misinformation can distort reality—just think of the Blake Lively/Justin Baldoni “It Ends with Us” tabloid drama. The same goes for teams: bad seeds and Negative Neds drag others down and derail progress. Pause, fact-check, and cut the toxicity. Show them the portal to their “happy team,” and surround yourself with collaborators who inspire and uplift.
5️⃣ Embrace Constructive Debate
Candid conversations aren’t just valuable—they’re essential. Respectful debate elevates the whole team and invites fresh perspectives. Sit at a round table, lean in, and welcome diverse viewpoints. That’s where the magic happens.
6️⃣ Think Big, But Take Small Bites
In a world of rapid change and innovation, it’s overwhelming to map out the full integrated plan. Keep your eye on the horizon, but focus on small, achievable steps that build momentum and drive progress. Quick wins lead to bigger victories.
7️⃣ Make Integrity Guarantees
Confidence is built on trust, and nothing says trust like aligning your interests with your partners’. Don’t share fake news to reinforce a point you want to make, share true facts, the good, the bad and the ugly. Offer pay-for-performance guarantee to demonstrate you’re doing your best to deliver results partners can believe in. It’s more than a promise—it’s a reflection of your commitment to integrity, accountability, and shared success.
2024 was a year of growth, challenges, and revelations—a reminder that success comes from balancing ambition with intention and some perseverance sprinkled on top. Here’s to stepping into 2025 with clarity, purpose, perspective and a team that lifts you higher. Fogbreak Advisors would be honored to partner with you to break through any fog that rolls your way.
