Written by: Robin M. Wilson, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
We are one day away from 2022. With a new year on the horizon, I have been reflecting on the lessons that I have learned during this audacious revolution around the Sun.
One thing that I know for sure is that I am carrying a greater sense of self into the new year—along with incredible clarity about my intentions for the year ahead.
My mantra moving forward will be to focus, remember, and be. That is: focus on the right priorities, remember your purpose, and be true to who you are.
Today, my book Focus: How One Word a Week Will Transform Your Life by Cleere Cherry Reaves, arrived. The purpose of the devotional is to encourage you to be intentional about renewing your mind daily without attempting to be perfect or set unrealistic expectations.
Let's face it, no one's perfect. However, like many people, I have often become exhausted trying to do everything right. There are many things that I do well. I embrace my strengths. Still, I recognize that I have areas for growth. One word and one change per week seems more realistic than striving for perfection. Here is what I plan to do better in 2022:
1. I plan to focus more on faith and family, remember to give myself and others more grace, and be more honest about my time. As much as possible, I want to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Therefore, I will be more intentional about who and what I say "yes" to.
2. I plan to focus more on the positives, remember not to sweat the small stuff, and to be more flexible. I recognize that sometimes plans change or pivots must happen while endeavoring to achieve a goal. Therefore, I am committed to being patient in the learning process.
3. I plan to focus more on opportunities that align with my priorities, remember to schedule more time for rest—leaning more on my community for support—and being more bold and intentional in business moves.
This year, I have transformed as a woman. Internally, I did the hard work of beginning to heal some emotional wounds, and I am better for it. I redirected my focus on the Lord and—with more confidence—I wore clothes that made me feel good and that I absolutely loved.
Despite having an ischemic stroke earlier this year, I successfully launched a business, became an international speaker, started teaching French to kindergarten scholars, and published my children's book Mama Got Rhythm, Daddy Got Rhyme. My heart is filled with thankfulness for health and strength to be able to continue to do the things that I enjoy.
In August, I received the invitation to write for Brainz Magazine. The opportunity to share my knowledge and voice with an international audience is an honor. Earlier this month, I learned that my company was among the honorees for the Brainz 500 Global Awards, which recognizes companies and influential leaders for entrepreneurial success and dedication to helping others. This is a great way to bring a year to a close.
Still, by far, I am thankful for the relationships that I have cultivated in the past twelve months. I have met incredible leaders from different business sectors and gained new friendships and mentors. Additionally, I have had opportunities to mentor others.
In the new year, I plan to continue to grow my business, expand my body of written work, and to speak locally, nationally, and globally on literacy and leadership. Furthermore, I look forward to continuing to teach and to connect with other business leaders.
Next month, I will start hosting a virtual and in-person Bible study once a month for Christian businesswomen who seek to build and grow their businesses using biblical principles. In my view, this is a meaningful way to start and walk through a new year—surrounded by a community of entrepreneurial women who have shared values and support one another’s growth.
As you prepare for a new year, what do you want to focus on intentionally? What do you want to remember? And how will you be true to who you are? A new dawn is on the horizon. Let's walk boldly into 2022.
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Robin M. Wilson, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Robin M. Wilson is the founder and CEO of Robin Wilson Educational Consulting LLC, where she combines her research knowledge and professional experience to guide nonprofit organizations in developing effective strategies for serving youth, especially young girls and women. With more than 10 years of experience working on literacy initiatives and in the nonprofit sector, Robin has worked directly with people from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds locally and abroad. She has trained youth and adults to become leaders and responsible citizens. Robin is a compassionate leader with a passion for uplifting and inspiring young people to lead and thrive.
