As we begin the last month of 2021, I'm reflecting on how this year went (and where it went!). And I'm reminded yet again how things never go quite as planned and most things take longer than we think.

Despite that, I'm blown away by the things that happened for clients, colleagues, and friends this year:

Books, articles, and photos published.
Podcasts, programs, websites, products, and courses launched.
TEDx Talks written and selected.
New revenue milestones achieved.
Babies conceived.

At the start of 2021, I wrote in my blog Talk to Me in Three Years describing that it takes a few years for most businesses to get to a financially viable place, and I stand behind that point of view. But I'm beginning to see that for most of these bigger things, this journey towards "success" is really 5+ years in the making. And sometimes, it's the culmination of decades of work.

In a world full of promises of thinner thighs in 30 days, or six weeks to six-figures and other flat-out lies, I'm going to keep preaching that most good things in life take time. Because it's time that's needed to learn, nurture, cultivate, pivot, change our minds, fail, learn again and evolve. That's the nature of life, and once we accept that fact, we can get back to doing the work we love.

And while we're on the topic of how our path in life never goes quite as planned, check out the series, Maid on Netflix, based on the memoir, Maid by Stephanie Land. It's equal parts heartbreaking and uplifting and full of moments so real they made a lasting impression. The acting is excellent, plus you get the bonus of seeing Andie McDowell in an unforgettable supporting role. I highly recommend this show!

I had the privilege of seeing Simon Sinek discuss his latest book, The Infinite Game, in the days leading up to COVID and hung on every word. He describes the difference between a finite and infinite mindset in business (and life) which he was compelled to write years after first reading about the concept in the work of NYU Professor James P. Carse. So what's the Infinite Game? It's one where you're not in it for the short term but instead have a lasting commitment. This infinite lens impacts every decision you make. Whether you're a leader in a corporate role or running your own business, you will come away inspired. I urge you to read this book!

This Game Called Life