"The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance." – Alan Watts

It's my birthday today, and as I reflect on the past year, I’m filled with gratitude for the lessons I’ve learned and the experiences that have shaped me. Life has a way of teaching us through both challenges and joys, and I believe it’s important to pause, look back, and share these insights with others. As I reminisce, I want to share some of the key lessons that have brought me growth, joy, and a deeper sense of purpose this past year.

15 Lessons I've Learned in the Last Year

1. Nurture Your Marriage
   As the kids grow up and leave the nest, the bond with your spouse becomes even more important. In this new season of life, I've learned the importance of strengthening my relationship with my wife. Make time for meaningful conversations, shared dreams, and small gestures of love to keep the relationship flourishing.

2. The Power of Friendship
   "You can only journey in this life with good friends, companions, and partners." Over the past year, I've come to realize that life is meant to be shared. Building meaningful relationships, both personal and professional, brings a richness that makes every moment worthwhile. But also, keep an open mind—you never know where you might meet a friend who will play an incredible role in your life. Embrace serendipity and be open to the experience of forming new connections in the most unexpected places.

3. Think Before You Hit Send
   Taking a moment to rethink an email before you send it can save a lot of heartache. As Dr. Aldrich advised, “Don’t send that mail.” This past year has taught me the importance of patience and the impact of words. Craft your responses thoughtfully to communicate effectively and with grace.

4. Invest in Continuous Learning
   I’ve learned that personal and professional growth never stops. In the last three months, I’ve spent a tremendous amount of time writing an e-book about career development, which has shown me the power of continuous learning and improvement. Every year, make it a priority to learn something new—take a course, attend a seminar, or dive into a new book. This keeps your mind sharp and opens up new opportunities. For more information about my e-book and our services, visit our website: Partnership of Coaches.

5. Monthly Long Weekends
   Taking a long weekend every month for yourself and your loved ones is a game-changer. Use this time to relax, focus on self-care, and connect with those who matter most. It’s these moments of rest that fuel you for the challenges ahead.

6. Quarterly Nature Retreats
   Spend a week every quarter in nature. Hiking and reflecting have become invaluable to me. It’s a time to set new visions, rethink the future, and ensure that you're on the right path. Nature provides clarity and perspective that the hustle of daily life often clouds.

7. Build Strong Relationships—Online and Offline
   In this digital age, I’ve realized that deep, meaningful relationships can be nurtured both in person and online. Whether over Zoom or a coffee table, the key is to be intentional. Make time for open conversations, listen actively, and be present. Strong relationships, wherever they are formed, are the foundation of a fulfilling life.

8. Cherish Every Moment
   Life is fragile, and things can change in an instant. This year has reminded me how quickly health can falter, and life can shift dramatically. As my child sets off on a new journey, I'm acutely aware of the fleeting nature of time. It’s important to be present, to cherish every moment, and to make the most of the time we have with our loved ones. Don't take your health, your family, or the simple pleasures of life for granted.

9. Practice the 5 AM Club
   One of the most transformative lessons I’ve learned this year is the power of a morning routine, as taught by Robin Sharma's "5 AM Club." The first hour of the morning is sacred and sets the tone for the rest of the day. I begin with 20 minutes of intensive exercise to kick-start my energy and metabolism. This is followed by 20 minutes of journaling, reflecting on what I am grateful for, and setting my intentions for the day. Finally, I spend 20 minutes learning something new, whether through listening to an audiobook, podcast, or reading. Incorporating these practices as the sun rises has brought clarity, focus, and a sense of peace to my life.

10. Prioritize Your Health
    Taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional health is paramount. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and wellness practices like meditation or journaling contribute to a balanced, fulfilling life. When you prioritize your well-being, you have the energy to give your best to others.

11. Cultivate Spiritual Health
    This past year, I've learned the importance of nurturing my spiritual life. Spend the first moments of your day in prayer, meditation, and reading the Bible. This daily habit sets the tone for your day and helps you grow in faith. Persevere even when it feels difficult, and if you fall off the wagon, get back on again. It’s essential to repent, confess, and eat humble pie when necessary—ask for forgiveness and set things right. Building a strong spiritual foundation is a lifelong journey, one that enriches every other aspect of life.

12. Invest in Your Community
    This year has shown me the value of a strong community, both practically and spiritually. When we had trouble with our vehicle, we were surrounded by an amazing network of people willing to help, support, pray, and encourage. It reminded me how vital it is to build and invest in your community, to be a good neighbor, and to play an active role in the lives of those around you. Equally important is cultivating a spiritual community that can carry you through the valleys of life. When you feel like you're walking through the shadow of death, these relationships become your source of strength. Engage actively, encourage others, and allow yourself to be supported. In times of need, the community you’ve built will be the foundation that upholds you.

13. Rethink Multitasking
    Drawing from the teachings of David Rock in Your Brain at Work, I've learned that true multitasking is a myth. However, it's possible to reap multiple benefits while doing a single task. For instance, when I watch a series on Netflix, I do so on my spinning bike, combining relaxation with exercise. Reading a book not only enriches my knowledge but also provides a sense of calm. When I want to listen to music, I pair it with a workout to enhance both my physical and mental state. By intentionally adding layers of benefit to a single activity, you maximize your time and enrich your life in various ways. I've started using these opportunities to learn about topics outside my usual scope of interest, expanding my horizons while pursuing my daily routines.

14. Learn a New Skill or Hobby
    This year, I decided to stretch my brain and learn something new. My son trained with the dog unit last year and brought back a trained Belgian Malinois. Due to his time constraints with school and social commitments, I've spent a lot of time with the Malinois, teaching myself how to train the dog. It's not always perfect, but the process has been rewarding. Learning a new skill or taking up a new hobby not only develops grit but also keeps your mind active and continually growing. I encourage you to focus this year on learning something new—it will enrich your life in unexpected ways.

15. The Art of Wandering
    "The sun is fast fallin'
    Beneath trees of stone,
    The light in the tower,
    No longer my home,
    Passed eyes of pale fire,
    Black sand for my bed,
    I trade all I've known for the unknown ahead.

    Of drink I have little
    And food I have less,
    My strength tells me no,
    But the path demands yes.

    My legs are so short and the way is so long,
    I've no rest nor comfort,
    No comfort but song.

    Sing to me, sing to me, lands far away!
    Oh rise up and guide me this wandering day,
    Please promise to find me this wandering day.

    At last comes their answer,
    Through cold and through frost,
    That not all who wonder or wander are lost,
    No matter the sorrow,
    No matter the cost,
    That not all who wonder or wander are lost."

    This year, I've learned that it’s okay to dream, to explore, and to wander. This poem captures the essence of embracing the journey, even when the path seems uncertain. It’s in these moments of exploration that we uncover new passions and discover more about ourselves. Embrace wandering, for it is through the journey that we often find our truest path.

Conclusion

As I look forward to the year ahead, I’m reminded of how precious each moment, relationship, and opportunity for growth truly is. The experiences I've shared here have taught me the value of being intentional with our time, our health, our relationships, and our personal growth.

So, I encourage you to reflect on your own journey and consider how you can be more deliberate in your actions. What can you do today to nurture your relationships, invest in your health, and stretch your mind? Let’s commit to wandering through life with purpose, finding joy and meaning in every step. Here’s to another year of learning, growth, and the courage to embrace the unknown.

If you’d like to explore these concepts further or join me on this journey of personal and professional growth, visit Partnership of Coaches and let’s take the next step together.