The Year Choosing Connection Changed Everything

This year didn’t go the way I expected—and honestly, I’m grateful for that.

At the start of 2025, I chose a word for the year for the first time.

I chose connection.

And that one choice changed everything.

For most of my life, especially in leadership roles, I kept my head down and focused on the to‑do list. I wasn’t actively looking for connection because I assumed I wouldn’t stay long enough to build it, or that as a leader I needed to keep things strictly professional.

But when I transitioned out of the CAF and into building my own business, something surprising happened.

I thought I didn’t have a network… until I actually looked around.

When I started reaching out, saying yes to invitations, and putting myself in situations that felt uncomfortable, I realized people were ready to welcome me in. And honestly, the world is hungry for meaningful connection—not transactional interactions.

Choosing connection created a completely different year for me.

Some relationships became friendships.

Some became collaborations.

Others deepened in ways I hadn’t made space for before.

And the energy that came from that has shaped every part of my life and work.

What I’m carrying into next year is simple: intention creates opportunity.

And when you make space for connection, connection shows up.

What about you—what’s one lesson this year taught you that you didn’t see coming? I’d love to hear what shifted for you too.