This past week, I’ve been reflecting on the year that was 2023. A quick scroll through my calendar and journals generated a list of achievements, but a year well lived is more than a list of big ‘To Dos’ that got done. So here is my 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 formula to review the year with a more holistic perspective.

• Five achievements that make you proud
• Four things for which you are grateful
• Three personal qualities that served you well
• Two life lessons to take forward and
• One word to summarise the year.

Here is my wrap up of 2023

Five achievements that make me proud

1. Creating and launching an app in partnership with my son.
2. Deciding to leave the Department of Education after a very successful career of 33 years. It was time to start career #2.
3. Establishing two Facebook groups. AI and ChatGPT for Australian School Leaders and Teachers with 13K+ members. Bonkers! Women in Leadership – Rural Regional & Remote Australia.
4. Starting my own practice to grow more leaders and registering my business.
5. Joining Thought Leaders Business School

Four things for which I am grateful

1. Mert (my husband), Abe and Jett (my sons) who are my greatest supporters. I am also happy we could make a trip to Texas, USA, a reality for the three generations of Graham boys.
2. My growing network. I have met (virtually and in-real-life) so many people this year. I have loved hearing the diverse experiences, pathways and challenges shared with me. I am also amazed at the networks and associations in my community and state I never knew existed. It has been wonderful to join and contribute in these groups.
3. Resources available to me. I feel privileged to live at this time when things are so accessible. I have particularly appreciated courses, books, podcasts, mentors, authors and communities of like-minded people this year.
4. Leaders who have engaged with my work. That’s you! Whether it’s via my newsletter, one of the social media platforms, visiting my website or attending one of my events, thank you! Helping leaders grow more leaders fills my bucket. I am grateful you are in my circle!

Three personal qualities that served me well

1. Being optimistic.
2. Getting curious about the people I meet and opportunities available to me.
3. Having faith that I’ll be ok.

Two life lessons to take forward

1. Feel the fear and do it anyway.
2. You don’t grow in the status quo.

One word to summarise the year

Transition!

Now it is over to you. What are your 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 for 2023?