Happy 2022 & Looking Back at 2021

2021 was yet another difficult year for us all, and I am certainly ready for 2022. While difficult, I'm proud of the successes I have had in tough times and have learned a lot from the challenges I have had. To look forward, I wanted to spend a few minutes looking back at 2021.

2021 had its high points:

• I helped launch a new transformation for FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program: CRS Next. I'm very excited to be part of updating this program that helps communities and homeowners that face flooding.
• In the face of every challenge thrown at me, I have exceeded my revenue goals for 2021.
• I was admitted to a select coaching academy to learn from experts in my field.
• I started a Pastry Arts Certificate program with Auguste Escoffier, and I've made honor roll every session.
• I was elected to the role of Trustee of my Village.
• I was so happy to go to the holiday concerts of my 2 kids in band and enjoy watching them and thinking of my own memories of being in band from 5th grade through college.
• We took our kids to Disney and Universal after several postponed attempts, and it was wonderful.
• My husband and I took a kid-free vacation to Mexico and it was the perfect rejuvenation to get ready for 2022.
• My family is ending 2021 healthy and surrounded by good friends and loving family.

And 2021 had its challenges to overcome:

• I said goodbye to my Township family, when I chose not to run for Township Supervisor again and instead ran for Village Trustee. It was a sad goodbye, but I'm happy to stay in touch with many of my colleagues.
• COVID visited our home - my youngest got it at the beginning of the school year. He recovered well, finally regaining his smell and taste after 2 months.
• I sought help for PTSD that I experienced after a car accident in October 2020. In addition, to learning to manage the PTSD, my therapist helped me work through other issues holding me back - including my favorite: imposter syndrome.
• I was diagnosed with breast cancer on my middle child's birthday. After 2 surgeries and radiation, I have kicked its ass. But the scars and thoughts of it coming back stay with me.

I've overcome these challenges, and often had the love and support of friends to support me.

• My husband was simply amazing during my breast cancer journey. I know it was really hard for him too, but he did everything I could not due while going through treatment and was so supportive.
• A fellow coach reached out and worked with me on NLP - it was amazing and helped remove the mental blocks that have held me back from bigger things.
• My bestie helped me get into that coaching academy and has been a total rock for me throughout the year.
• My kids are simply the best. They are 8, 10, and 12 but handled the challenges of 2020 and 2021 like champs, including being my helpers and my snugglers during my cancer treatment.
• My clients and colleagues have had my back and understood every day off for sickness and exhaustion I've needed this year.

While I experienced huge challenges - I mean, cancer straight up sucks - I still treasure this year. I learned a lot, especially about myself. I've overcome and had friends and family lifting me up the whole time. I'm incredibly grateful for all of the above - the good and the bad.

Looking back at all of this, I feel more than ready to conquer 2022. I have my goals in place, and I am going to beat them all. And I am going to do it as my best self - being open & authentic, and laughing the whole time. And cursing. Definitely cursing too.

What was your 2021 like and how will you use it to kick 2022's arse? Let me know in the comments!!!